Casualties unknown

Partial Power Loss Leads to Forced Landing in Water After Power Line Strike (N90840)

San Ardo, CA, US

On May 22, 1987, a Boeing A75N1 (registration N90840) was involved in an aviation accident near San Ardo, 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards
Aircraft registered N90840
Aircraft registered N90840. Photo: Motohide Miwa from USA / CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

During a pleasure cross-country flight, the engine experienced a partial loss of power. The pilot made a forced landing; prior to touchdown, the aircraft struck power lines and then contacted terrain in approximately three feet of water.

Event Description

During a pleasure cross-country flight, the aircraft's engine experienced a partial loss of power. The pilot subsequently executed a forced landing. Shortly before touchdown, the aircraft collided with power lines and then made contact with terrain that was covered in approximately three feet of water.

Post-Incident Inspection

The aircraft had a history of fouled spark plugs resulting in a rough running engine. Following the incident, the spark plugs were removed and inspected. The number 4 spark plug was found to be finger tight. The front and back spark plugs for cylinders 1, 2, 6, and 7 displayed normal operating signatures. When spark plugs 3, 4, and 5 were removed, a considerable amount of a water and oil mixture drained from them. Additionally, a sandy type substance and vegetation were noted on these plugs. No mechanical failure or malfunction was noted in the rest of the engine system.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 May 1987 Boeing A75N1 accident near San Ardo, CA?

During a pleasure cross-country flight, the engine experienced a partial loss of power. The pilot made a forced landing; prior to touchdown, the aircraft struck power lines and then contacted terrain in approximately three feet of water.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 May 1987 involved a Boeing A75N1, registration N90840, at San Ardo, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30971. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.