On March 10, 1987, a Cessna TR182 (registration N737NM) operated by Lupo Rattazzi was involved in an aviation accident near No.atlantic OC, AO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Electrical system failure that prevented fuel transfer from ferry tanks, resulting in engine failure and ditching. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot ditched his aircraft in the North Atlantic after an electrical system failure prevented fuel transfer from ferry tanks, causing engine failure. The pilot was rescued.
What happened
The pilot departed Canada on a ferry flight intended for Shannon, Ireland. Prior to departure, the aircraft required a jump start because the master switch had been left on overnight. Approximately 750 miles west of the Irish coast, the electrical system failed. This failure prevented the transfer of fuel from the ferry tanks to the main engine. Consequently, the engine stopped, and the pilot was forced to ditch the aircraft in the ocean. The aircraft sank immediately after landing on the water. The pilot was subsequently rescued.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the ditching. Key findings included the initial electrical system failure and its direct impact on fuel management. The inability to transfer fuel from the auxiliary ferry tanks was identified as a critical mechanical constraint during the emergency.
Probable cause
Electrical system failure that prevented fuel transfer from ferry tanks, resulting in engine failure and ditching.
What happened in the 10 Mar 1987 Cessna TR182 accident near No.atlantic OC, AO?
A pilot ditched his aircraft in the North Atlantic after an electrical system failure prevented fuel transfer from ferry tanks, causing engine failure. The pilot was rescued.
Were there any fatalities in the 10 Mar 1987 Cessna TR182 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Mar 1987 involved a Cessna TR182, registration N737NM, operated by Lupo Rattazzi, at No.atlantic OC, AO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Electrical system failure that prevented fuel transfer from ferry tanks, resulting in engine failure and ditching.
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