Casualties unknown

Turbocharger Failure and Improper Pilot Actions Lead to Forced Landing in Residential Area (N761CM)

Littleton, CO, US

On April 19, 1991, a Cessna T210M (registration N761CM) operated by Denver Air Center was involved in an aviation accident near Littleton, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The turbocharger failed during climb to cruise and the pilot improperly selected high boost and full rich mixture, causing a total loss of power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A turbocharger failed during climb to cruise; the pilot improperly selected high boost and full rich mixture, causing total power loss. The aircraft made a forced landing on a residential street, colliding with wires, trees, and a house, then burned.

Accident Sequence

During the climb to cruise altitude, the turbocharger failed. The pilot then improperly selected high boost and full rich mixture, which resulted in a total loss of power. Instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) prevailed at the time. The pilot was initially vectored by air traffic control toward a distant airport, but was later vectored toward a closer airstrip.

Forced Landing

The pilot executed a forced landing on a residential street. During the landing, the airplane collided with wires, trees, and a house, after which the aircraft burned.

Investigation Findings

A post-accident examination of the turbocharger disclosed that it had been improperly reassembled by the overhaul facility. The investigation determined that the turbocharger failure occurred during climb, and the pilot's subsequent improper selection of high boost and full rich mixture caused a complete loss of engine power.

Probable cause

The turbocharger failed during climb to cruise and the pilot improperly selected high boost and full rich mixture, causing a total loss of power.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Apr 1991 Cessna T210M accident near Littleton, CO?

A turbocharger failed during climb to cruise; the pilot improperly selected high boost and full rich mixture, causing total power loss. The aircraft made a forced landing on a residential street, colliding with wires, trees, and a house, then burned.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Apr 1991 involved a Cessna T210M, registration N761CM, operated by Denver Air Center, at Littleton, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The turbocharger failed during climb to cruise and the pilot improperly selected high boost and full rich mixture, causing a total loss of power.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16774. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.