Casualties unknown

Engine failure during final approach leads to crash landing (N4894C)

Port Arthur, TX, US

On December 14, 1983, a Cessna T210N (registration N4894C) was involved in an aviation accident near Port Arthur, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply during flight, resulting in fuel exhaustion. 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 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft experienced an engine failure while on final approach, resulting in a forced landing in a muddy field approximately one mile from the airport.

What happened

The aircraft executed a forced landing in a muddy field located approximately one mile from the airport. The incident occurred after the engine ceased operation while the aircraft was on final approach for landing.

The investigation

Following the accident, investigators examined the aircraft and determined that the left fuel tank was empty. The right fuel tank contained 16 gallons of fuel. The pilot reported that he had been alternating between fuel tanks and had switched to the right tank prior to landing when the engine quit.

Findings

The investigation revealed that the left fuel tank was depleted, while the right tank retained a significant amount of fuel. The pilot's account indicates a transition between tanks occurred shortly before the loss of power.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply during flight, resulting in fuel exhaustion.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Dec 1983 Cessna T210N accident near Port Arthur, TX?

An aircraft experienced an engine failure while on final approach, resulting in a forced landing in a muddy field approximately one mile from the airport.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Dec 1983 involved a Cessna T210N, registration N4894C, at Port Arthur, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to ensure adequate fuel supply during flight, resulting in fuel exhaustion.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X45302. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.