On November 12, 1987, a Cessna 210A (registration N9505X) operated by Robert K. West was involved in an aviation accident near San Luis Obispo, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain control during a forced landing after an in-flight engine failure, although the cause of the power loss was not determined due to lack of mechanical evidence. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft experienced an in-flight engine failure while on final approach, forcing the pilot to execute a landing in a field where the nose gear collapsed.
What happened
The pilot reported that while approaching the airport, he reduced altitude from 1800 feet to 1400 feet by slipping the aircraft. After leveling the wings, the aircraft continued to descend and entered the traffic pattern at an altitude of 1200 feet. While established on final approach for landing, the engine stopped operating unexpectedly. The pilot was unable to reach the runway and instead executed a forced landing in a soft field adjacent to the airport. Upon impact with the ground, the aircraft nosed over.
The investigation
A post-acc examination of the aircraft revealed no evidence of pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would account for the loss of engine power.
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to maintain control during a forced landing after an in-flight engine failure, although the cause of the power loss was not determined due to lack of mechanical evidence.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 12 Nov 1987 Cessna 210A accident near San Luis Obispo, CA?
An aircraft experienced an in-flight engine failure while on final approach, forcing the pilot to execute a landing in a field where the nose gear collapsed.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 12 Nov 1987 involved a Cessna 210A, registration N9505X, operated by Robert K. West, at San Luis Obispo, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inability to maintain control during a forced landing after an in-flight engine failure, although the cause of the power loss was not determined due to lack of mechanical evidence.
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