On December 11, 1991, a Cessna 210M (registration N761VB) operated by Centurion Flight Service was involved in an aviation accident near Palo Alto, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: AN ENGINE POWER LOSS DUE TO A PARTIAL BLOCKAGE OF THE FUEL SELECTOR VALVE WITH DEBRIS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
About 4 seconds after departure and at 150 feet above ground, the engine suddenly lost power. The pilot executed an emergency landing in a marsh approximately 3/4 mile from the runway. Subsequent engine testing revealed low fuel flow and rubber debris partially blocking the left fuel tank position.
Departure and Power Loss
The certificated airline transport pilot was beginning a positioning flight as the first leg of an air taxi operation. Approximately 4 seconds after departure and at about 150 feet above the ground, the engine suddenly lost power.
Emergency Landing
An emergency landing was made in a marsh area, approximately 3/4 mile from the departure end of the runway.
Post-Recovery Examination
After recovery, the engine was placed on a test stand and started. The engine ran at idle and 2100 RPM. Low fuel flow was noticed from the fuel strainer.
Fuel Selector Disassembly
Disassembly of the fuel selector revealed small portions of rubber partially blocking the left fuel tank position.
What happened in the 11 Dec 1991 Cessna 210M accident near Palo Alto, CA?
About 4 seconds after departure and at 150 feet above ground, the engine suddenly lost power. The pilot executed an emergency landing in a marsh approximately 3/4 mile from the runway. Subsequent engine testing revealed low fuel flow and rubber debris partially blocking the left fuel tank position.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 Dec 1991 involved a Cessna 210M, registration N761VB, operated by Centurion Flight Service, at Palo Alto, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
AN ENGINE POWER LOSS DUE TO A PARTIAL BLOCKAGE OF THE FUEL SELECTOR VALVE WITH DEBRIS.
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