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Engine Power Loss After Glider Towing Leads to Forced Landing and Nose Over (N6315A)

Lake Elsinore, CA, US

On March 30, 1991, a Cessna 182A (registration N6315A) operated by Low Expense Soaring Club was involved in an aviation accident near Lake Elsinore, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: UNDETERMINED ENGINE POWER LOSS. A FACTOR WS THE SOFT TERRAIN. 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

After a glider towing mission, the aircraft's engine lost all power on final approach. The pilot performed a forced landing to the only open area, but soft soil caused the aircraft to nose over.

Incident Overview

Following the completion of a glider towing mission, the aircraft experienced a total loss of engine power while on final approach to the airport. The pilot reported in a written statement that he rocked the wings to move fuel around and attempted to restart the engine, but it would not restart.

Forced Landing

The pilot executed a power-off forced landing to the only open area he believed he could reach. Due to the soft soil conditions in that area, the aircraft nosed over upon landing.

Pilot's Statements

In an oral statement to an FAA safety inspector, the pilot indicated that the engine may have lost power due to fuel exhaustion. However, the aircraft was removed from the accident site without authorization, preventing an on-site examination. Additionally, the pilot did not return a completed Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report (NTSB Form 6120.1/2).

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Mar 1991 Cessna 182A accident near Lake Elsinore, CA?

After a glider towing mission, the aircraft's engine lost all power on final approach. The pilot performed a forced landing to the only open area, but soft soil caused the aircraft to nose over.

Were there any fatalities in the 30 Mar 1991 Cessna 182A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Mar 1991 involved a Cessna 182A, registration N6315A, operated by Low Expense Soaring Club, at Lake Elsinore, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

UNDETERMINED ENGINE POWER LOSS. A FACTOR WS THE SOFT TERRAIN.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16645. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.