Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Clout Leads to Runway Excursion (N57AB)

Boulder, CO, US

On May 26, 1992, a Cessna T210H (registration N57AB) was involved in an aviation accident near Boulder, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: POWER LOSS DUE TO LOW FUEL PUMP PRESSURE AND A CHAFED UPPER DECK REFERENCE LINE. A FACTOR WAS: THE PILOT'S INABILITY TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL DUE TO A PARTIALLY EXTENDED MAIN LANDING GEAR. 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

During climb after takeoff, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted an on-airport forced landing with partial main gear extension, resulting in a loss of directional control and runway excursion.

Event Summary

The pilot reported that after takeoff, the landing gear was retracted and the aircraft climbed to approximately 100 feet above ground level. At that point, the engine suddenly lost power. The pilot extended the landing gear to perform a forced landing on the airport. Upon touchdown, the nose landing gear had extended and locked, but the main landing gear were only partially extended. The pilot was unable to maintain directional control, and the airplane skidded off the runway.

Post-Accident Examination

Following the accident, an examination of the aircraft revealed two discrepancies. The engine-driven fuel pump could not produce its rated pressure at high power settings. Additionally, a hole was found in the upper deck reference line, which had been caused by chafing against the generator mounting bracket.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 May 1992 Cessna T210H accident near Boulder, CO?

During climb after takeoff, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted an on-airport forced landing with partial main gear extension, resulting in a loss of directional control and runway excursion.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 May 1992 involved a Cessna T210H, registration N57AB, at Boulder, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

POWER LOSS DUE TO LOW FUEL PUMP PRESSURE AND A CHAFED UPPER DECK REFERENCE LINE. A FACTOR WAS: THE PILOT'S INABILITY TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL DUE TO A PARTIALLY EXTENDED MAIN LANDING GEAR.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14642. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.