Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss Due to Fuel Contamination After Annual Inspection (N3680Y)

Millington, TN, US

On August 10, 1989, a Cessna 210C (registration N3680Y) operated by Howard A. Daniels was involved in an aviation accident near Millington, TN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER, DUE TO CONTAMINATION IN THE FUEL FLOW MANIFOLD. THE CONTAMINATION IN THE FUEL SYSTEM WAS DUE TO INADEQUATE MAINTENANCE. 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

A pilot reported engine power loss at 100 ft AGL shortly after takeoff. A forced landing resulted in the aircraft nosing over. Examination revealed contaminants in the fuel flow divider.

Incident Summary

According to the pilot, the aircraft had just undergone its annual inspection, and the flight was intended to remain in the traffic pattern. Shortly after takeoff, at approximately 100 feet above ground level, the engine lost power and ceased operation. During the subsequent forced landing in a field, the aircraft nosed over.

Examination Findings

An examination of the engine revealed that the fuel flow divider contained gross quantities of contaminants. The presence of these contaminants was identified as a potential cause of fuel obstruction.

Mechanic's Insights

A mechanic stated that the contaminants could have blocked fuel delivery to one or more cylinders, causing the remaining cylinders to receive an excess of fuel due to unobstructed flow. The mechanic also noted that during an annual inspection, the fuel flow divider is not routinely disassembled for inspection.

No other details regarding the aircraft type, registration, date, operator, location, occupants, injuries, or damage were provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 Aug 1989 Cessna 210C accident near Millington, TN?

A pilot reported engine power loss at 100 ft AGL shortly after takeoff. A forced landing resulted in the aircraft nosing over. Examination revealed contaminants in the fuel flow divider.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 Aug 1989 involved a Cessna 210C, registration N3680Y, operated by Howard A. Daniels, at Millington, TN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER, DUE TO CONTAMINATION IN THE FUEL FLOW MANIFOLD. THE CONTAMINATION IN THE FUEL SYSTEM WAS DUE TO INADEQUATE MAINTENANCE.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29035. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.