On August 30, 1985, a Cessna T210-M (registration N761VV) was involved in an aviation accident near Camano Island, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot failed to visually verify the fuel on board prior to takeoff and was aware that one fuel gage was inaccurate. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot failed to visually confirm fuel levels before takeoff despite knowing one fuel gauge was inaccurate, leading to a total power loss over water. The aircraft reached land but hit hedges during the forced landing, collapsing the nose gear and nosing over. Only one gallon of fuel remained.
Incident Overview
An aircraft experienced a total loss of engine power over water approximately 30 miles from its intended destination airport. The pilot, who had failed to visually verify the fuel on board prior to takeoff despite being aware that one fuel gauge was inaccurate, was able to reach land during the emergency descent.
Forced Landing
During the forced landing, the aircraft contacted hedges. The impact caused the nose gear to collapse, and the aircraft nosed over.
Post-Accident Inspection
A mechanic who inspected the aircraft after the accident reported that only one gallon of fuel remained on board. No evidence of fuel spillage was found at the accident site.
Probable cause
The pilot failed to visually verify the fuel on board prior to takeoff and was aware that one fuel gage was inaccurate.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 30 Aug 1985 Cessna T210-M accident near Camano Island, WA?
A pilot failed to visually confirm fuel levels before takeoff despite knowing one fuel gauge was inaccurate, leading to a total power loss over water. The aircraft reached land but hit hedges during the forced landing, collapsing the nose gear and nosing over. Only one gallon of fuel remained.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 30 Aug 1985 involved a Cessna T210-M, registration N761VV, at Camano Island, WA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot failed to visually verify the fuel on board prior to takeoff and was aware that one fuel gage was inaccurate.
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