Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Approach Leads to Emergency Landing and Ground Collision (N20MS)

Pleasant Grove, AL, US

On August 25, 1983, a Cessna T210L (registration N20MS) was involved in an aviation accident near Pleasant Grove, AL. 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

A pilot reported engine power loss during approach with the left main fuel gauge indicating half full. The subsequent emergency landing resulted in the left wing tip striking a utility pole and the aircraft colliding with a chain link fence. Investigation revealed all usable fuel had been consumed, and actual fuel consumption was higher than the pilot's estimate.

Accident Details

The pilot reported that the engine lost power while approaching the destination. At the time, the left main fuel gauge indicated one-half full. During the emergency landing, the left wing tip struck a utility pole before touchdown. The aircraft then collided with a chain link fence.

Fuel System and Consumption

All usable fuel had been consumed by the time of the incident. The aircraft was equipped with an extended range fuel system per Supplemental Type Certificate SA2162WE. The pilot had anticipated a fuel consumption rate of 75 pounds per hour; however, the actual fuel consumption was 88.5 pounds per hour. The pilot estimated that he had flown 970 miles when the engine quit, expecting a range of 1100 miles.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Aug 1983 Cessna T210L accident near Pleasant Grove, AL?

A pilot reported engine power loss during approach with the left main fuel gauge indicating half full. The subsequent emergency landing resulted in the left wing tip striking a utility pole and the aircraft colliding with a chain link fence. Investigation revealed all usable fuel had been consumed, and actual fuel…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Aug 1983 involved a Cessna T210L, registration N20MS, at Pleasant Grove, AL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X43985. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.