Casualties unknown

Engine Failure After Fuel Exhaustion During Flight (N3320Y)

Imperial, CA, US

On December 22, 1990, a Cessna 182E (registration N3320Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Imperial, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FUEL EXHAUSTION. 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 failure about 22 miles from destination after flying 3 hours 10 minutes. Investigation found minimal fuel in tanks despite departing with 65 gallons.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that the engine abruptly ceased operation while the aircraft was approximately 22 miles short of its intended destination. The pilot had been airborne for about 3 hours and 10 minutes at the time of the event.

Fuel Details

The pilot stated that the aircraft departed with 65 gallons of aviation fuel, but did not specify the method used to quantify that amount. According to the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH), 60 gallons of fuel is usable in all flight conditions. The POH also indicates an endurance of approximately 5.4 hours when operating at 60 percent power at an altitude of 10,000 feet with full standard fuel tanks.

On-Scene Examination

FAA personnel conducted an on-scene examination of the aircraft. The gascolator was found to be full of fuel, but the fuel tanks contained minimal amounts of fuel. Additionally, the fuel selector was positioned between the "BOTH" and "LEFT TANK" positions.

Conclusion

No probable cause was stated in the official source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Dec 1990 Cessna 182E accident near Imperial, CA?

A pilot reported engine failure about 22 miles from destination after flying 3 hours 10 minutes. Investigation found minimal fuel in tanks despite departing with 65 gallons.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Dec 1990 involved a Cessna 182E, registration N3320Y, at Imperial, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

FUEL EXHAUSTION.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24778. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.