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Engine Failure During Descent Results in Forced Landing and Substantial Damage (N92785)

Tuscaloosa, AL, US

On March 10, 1990, a Cessna 182N (registration N92785) was involved in an aviation accident near Tuscaloosa, AL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AN ADEQUATE FUEL SUPPLY, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL EXHAUSTION AND ENGINE STOPPAGE. 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 sudden engine failure during descent, about four hours into the flight. The airplane was force landed in a field and substantially damaged. Post-accident inspection found no fuel evidence in the system.

Accident Overview

During the descent for landing, the pilot reported that the engine quit suddenly. The loss of power occurred approximately four hours into the flight. The pilot performed a forced landing in a field, which resulted in substantial damage to the airplane.

Pilot Account

When asked about the amount of fuel on board at the time of the power loss, the pilot stated that he did not know. However, he noted that he had made the same trip previously without refueling.

Post-Accident Inspection

An inspection of the airplane after the accident revealed that there was no evidence of fuel in the fuel system, including both fuel tanks.

Fuel exhaustion & starvation

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 Mar 1990 Cessna 182N accident near Tuscaloosa, AL?

A pilot reported sudden engine failure during descent, about four hours into the flight. The airplane was force landed in a field and substantially damaged. Post-accident inspection found no fuel evidence in the system.

Were there any fatalities in the 10 Mar 1990 Cessna 182N accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 Mar 1990 involved a Cessna 182N, registration N92785, at Tuscaloosa, AL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AN ADEQUATE FUEL SUPPLY, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL EXHAUSTION AND ENGINE STOPPAGE.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22668. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.