Casualties unknown

Aircraft Loses Power During Approach Practice, Crashes Inverted in River Bed (N5256A)

Phoenix, AZ, US

On March 21, 1986, a Cessna T210N (registration N5256A) was involved in an aviation accident near Phoenix, AZ. 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 practicing instrument approaches reported a loss of engine power. During a forced landing, the aircraft struck power lines and crashed inverted in a river bed. Investigation revealed the right wing fuel tank was empty while the left was full, and the fuel selector was set to the right tank.

Accident Details

A pilot who was practicing instrument approaches reported a loss of engine power to the control tower. While attempting a forced landing, the aircraft struck power lines and crashed inverted in a river bed located two miles west of the airport.

Investigation Findings

The investigation revealed that the right wing fuel tank contained no fuel, while the left wing fuel tank was full. The fuel selector was found positioned to the right wing fuel tank.

Additional Information

The pilot had been practicing instrument approaches prior to the incident. The aircraft came to rest inverted in a river bed after striking power lines. No further details regarding the aircraft type, number of occupants, or injuries were provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Mar 1986 Cessna T210N accident near Phoenix, AZ?

A pilot practicing instrument approaches reported a loss of engine power. During a forced landing, the aircraft struck power lines and crashed inverted in a river bed. Investigation revealed the right wing fuel tank was empty while the left was full, and the fuel selector was set to the right tank.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Mar 1986 involved a Cessna T210N, registration N5256A, at Phoenix, AZ.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33105. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.