On September 2, 1991, a Cessna C-210 (registration N2580S) operated by Robert S. Sheldon was involved in an aviation accident near Calexico, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A NON-MECHANICAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO FUEL STARVATION FROM THE PILOT'S IMPROPER USE OF THE FUEL SUPPLY. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During descent, a pilot switched fuel tanks and lost engine power. The aircraft landed short of the runway and nosed over into a river. Investigation found no fuel in the right tank and a mixture of fuel and water in the left tank.
Incident Overview
A pilot reported a loss of engine power during a descent shortly after switching fuel tanks from the right tank to the left tank. The airplane subsequently landed short of the runway and nosed over into a river.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the fuel tanks revealed that no fuel was present in the right fuel tank. Approximately 20 gallons of fuel and water were noticed in the left fuel tank. There was no evidence of a mechanical malfunction with the engine.
Conclusion
The investigation did not identify any mechanical issues that could have contributed to the loss of engine power. The presence of water in the left fuel tank and the absence of fuel in the right tank were noted as relevant findings.
What happened in the 2 Sept 1991 Cessna C-210 accident near Calexico, CA?
During descent, a pilot switched fuel tanks and lost engine power. The aircraft landed short of the runway and nosed over into a river. Investigation found no fuel in the right tank and a mixture of fuel and water in the left tank.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Sept 1991 involved a Cessna C-210, registration N2580S, operated by Robert S. Sheldon, at Calexico, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
A NON-MECHANICAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO FUEL STARVATION FROM THE PILOT'S IMPROPER USE OF THE FUEL SUPPLY.
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