Casualties unknown

Engine Failure Leads to Ditching Near Shelter Cove (N5468V)

Shelter Cove, CA, US

On May 3, 1992, a Cessna T210L (registration N5468V) operated by David W. Larson was involved in an aviation accident near Shelter Cove, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE COMPLETE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. 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 an engine failure while on approach to Shelter Cove, leading to a ditching approximately half a mile offshore. All occupants were rescued by a passing fishing boat.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that the aircraft had approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes of fuel on board at departure for a 235-nautical-mile trip. After a 1.5-hour flight, the aircraft arrived at Shelter Cove. The pilot entered a right base leg for runway 30.

Engine Failure

About 1.5 miles from the runway at an altitude of 1,500 feet, the engine suddenly quit. The pilot stated that he attempted all emergency procedures but was unable to restart the engine.

Ditching and Rescue

The aircraft ditched about half a mile offshore. The occupants were picked up by a passing fishing boat.

Aircraft Recovery

The aircraft was never recovered from the ocean.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 May 1992 Cessna T210L accident near Shelter Cove, CA?

A pilot reported an engine failure while on approach to Shelter Cove, leading to a ditching approximately half a mile offshore. All occupants were rescued by a passing fishing boat.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 May 1992 involved a Cessna T210L, registration N5468V, operated by David W. Larson, at Shelter Cove, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE COMPLETE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14677. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.