Casualties unknown

Fuel Exhaustion Leads to Forced Landing After Diversion (N761MX)

Colusa, CA, US

On November 14, 1987, a Cessna T210M (registration N761MX) operated by Liberty Aviation Services was involved in an aviation accident near Colusa, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot executed a missed approach due to fog, diverted to Colusa, and experienced engine failure on approach. No fuel remained in the tanks, and the aircraft nosed over during a forced landing in a field.

Incident Overview

A pilot conducted a missed approach at the destination airport due to fog and reduced visibility. Subsequently, the pilot elected to divert to Colusa on account of the weather conditions. While on approach to Colusa, the engine ceased operation. Attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful, and the pilot performed a forced landing in a field. During the landing, the aircraft nosed over.

Investigation Findings

An investigation revealed that no fuel remained in the aircraft's fuel tanks. The pilot reported that although the fuel gauge indicated empty, his calculations had suggested that sufficient fuel should have been available for the flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Nov 1987 Cessna T210M accident near Colusa, CA?

A pilot executed a missed approach due to fog, diverted to Colusa, and experienced engine failure on approach. No fuel remained in the tanks, and the aircraft nosed over during a forced landing in a field.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Nov 1987 involved a Cessna T210M, registration N761MX, operated by Liberty Aviation Services, at Colusa, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32559. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.