Casualties unknown

Cessna T303 Strikes Antenna After Dual Engine Loss on Final Approach (N2225C)

Santa Maria, CA, US

On April 14, 1987, a Cessna T303 (registration N2225C) was involved in an aviation accident near Santa Maria, CA. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A Cessna T303 collided with a localizer antenna after losing power in both engines on final approach to Runway 30. The pilot cited fuel exhaustion; investigation revealed the aircraft had not been refueled at the previous stop.

Incident Details

A Cessna T303 experienced a total loss of power in both engines while on final approach to Runway 30. Subsequently, the aircraft struck a localizer antenna. The pilot reported that the engines failed due to fuel exhaustion. During the descent, after lowering the landing gear, the aircraft descended 150 to 200 feet before impacting the antenna.

Operational Procedures

The flight had made five stops to pick up and deliver cargo. The aircraft was typically flown daily by different pilots. According to standard procedure, the aircraft was not refueled at its base departure point but rather at an intermediate stop. As a result, the aircraft was not fully fueled before the day's flight. The fuel level could only be estimated through visual inspection during the preflight check.

Investigation Findings

Two weeks prior to the incident, the pilot had questioned the chief pilot about this refueling procedure and the fuel level, and was informed that it was acceptable. The investigation revealed that the aircraft had not been refueled during the preceding day's stop at the intermediate location.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30715. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.