Casualties unknown

Aircraft N761YA Found Burned in Desert After Landing Gear Collision

Belen, NM, US

On June 7, 1982, a Cessna T210M (registration N761YA) operated by Vindar Avia., Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Belen, NM. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

On June 11, 1982, the burned remains of aircraft N761YA were found in open desert terrain. The aircraft had landed and its left and nose gear struck scrub brush, causing the left gear to collapse and the nose gear fork to separate. The pilot's whereabouts are unknown.

Incident Overview

On June 11, 1982, the burned remains of aircraft N761YA were discovered in open desert terrain. The aircraft had been reported missing after a weather briefing request on June 7, 1982. A person identifying themselves as the pilot had contacted Albuquerque Flight Service Station (ABQ FSS) at 2310Z on that date, requesting a weather briefing for the area from Deming/Silver City, New Mexico, to Albuquerque.

Landing and Gear Failure

Evidence at the scene indicated that the aircraft had landed on the open flat desert. During the landing rollout, the left and nose gear struck small scrub brush. This impact caused the left gear to collapse and the nose gear fork to separate from the aircraft.

Scene Investigation

Tracks appearing to be from a four-wheel drive vehicle were found at the scene. The whereabouts of the pilot who had rented the aircraft remain unknown. The injury index is presumed.

Aircraft Condition

The aircraft was found in a burned-out state. No further details about the extent of damage or other components were reported.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Jun 1982 Cessna T210M accident near Belen, NM?

On June 11, 1982, the burned remains of aircraft N761YA were found in open desert terrain. The aircraft had landed and its left and nose gear struck scrub brush, causing the left gear to collapse and the nose gear fork to separate. The pilot's whereabouts are unknown.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Jun 1982 involved a Cessna T210M, registration N761YA, operated by Vindar Avia., Inc., at Belen, NM.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03473. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.