Casualties unknown

Engine Failure During Fuel Tank Switch Leads to Orchard Crash (N756XW)

Hood River, OR, US

On July 17, 1982, a Cessna TU206G (registration N756XW) operated by Russell O. Wagner was involved in an aviation accident near Hood River, OR. 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

An engine failed after the pilot switched fuel tanks while turning base. Attempts to restart were unsuccessful, and the aircraft crashed into an apple orchard.

Accident Overview

During a flight, the pilot switched from the left fuel tank to the right tank while turning base. Immediately after the switch, the engine failed. The pilot activated the boost pump, but the engine did not restart. He then switched back to the left tank and engaged the high boost setting, yet the engine still failed to start. Subsequently, the aircraft crashed into an apple orchard.

Pilot Actions

The passenger, who is also a pilot, reported that the pilot attempted to restart the engine with full throttle, full mixture, and the boost pump turned on. According to the passenger's statement, this sequence was followed in the effort to restore engine power.

Aircraft-Specific Information

In this model of aircraft, when the engine-driven fuel pump is functioning and the auxiliary fuel pump switch is placed in the ON position, an excessively rich fuel-to-air ratio is produced unless the mixture is leaned. This condition is noted in the source as a characteristic of the aircraft's fuel system.

Final Outcome

The aircraft came to rest in an apple orchard following the unsuccessful restart attempts. The accident investigation source does not provide further details regarding injuries, damage, or other circumstances.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Jul 1982 Cessna TU206G accident near Hood River, OR?

An engine failed after the pilot switched fuel tanks while turning base. Attempts to restart were unsuccessful, and the aircraft crashed into an apple orchard.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Jul 1982 involved a Cessna TU206G, registration N756XW, operated by Russell O. Wagner, at Hood River, OR.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04174. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.