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Casualties unknown

Engine Failure During Steep Climbout Results in Ocean Landing (N873PJ)

Westerly, RI, US

On August 31, 1989, a Cessna 210N (registration N873PJ) was involved in an aviation accident near Westerly, RI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO PROPERLY ENSURE A SUFFICIENT QUANTITY OF FUEL FOR THE INTENDED FLIGHT. 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

During a steep climbout, the engine missed and later stopped completely. The pilot had not visually checked fuel, relying on the fuel totalizer and mechanic's word. Forced landing in ocean, airplane sank and was not recovered.

Incident Details

The pilot-in-command did not visually check the fuel in the fuel tanks. Instead, the pilot determined that the right tank was empty and the left tank had 20 gallons remaining through the fuel totalizer and the mechanic's word.

Sequence of Events

During a steep climbout, the engine began to miss. The pilot-in-command then selected the left fuel tank and turned the fuel boost pump switch on. After approximately ten minutes, the engine stopped completely, forcing the pilot to land in the ocean.

Outcome

The airplane sank and was not recovered. No further details on injuries, damage, or recovery were provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Aug 1989 Cessna 210N accident near Westerly, RI?

During a steep climbout, the engine missed and later stopped completely. The pilot had not visually checked fuel, relying on the fuel totalizer and mechanic's word. Forced landing in ocean, airplane sank and was not recovered.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Aug 1989 involved a Cessna 210N, registration N873PJ, at Westerly, RI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO PROPERLY ENSURE A SUFFICIENT QUANTITY OF FUEL FOR THE INTENDED FLIGHT.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29248. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.