Casualties unknown

1995-05-22: Cessna 310Q (N69786) — Atlantic Ocean, AO

Atlantic Ocean, AO, US

On May 22, 1995, a Cessna 310Q (registration N69786) was involved in an aviation accident near Atlantic Ocean, AO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper planning/decision, which resulted in fuel exhaustion, loss of engine power, and subsequent ditching at sea. Darkness and the high sea condition (rough water) were related factors. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane crashed into the ocean about 37 miles west of the Portuguese coast after the pilot reported fuel exhaustion and loss of power in both engines. Search crews found safety equipment but not the aircraft or pilot, who is presumed deceased.

Incident Overview

An airplane was flying over the ocean at night when the pilot reported a lack of fuel. Shortly thereafter, both engines lost power. Radar contact with the aircraft remained positive until just before it crashed into the sea approximately 37 miles west of the Portuguese coastline.

Environmental Conditions

At the time of the accident, the wind was reported from 310 degrees at 60 knots, and the sea state was rough.

Location

The crash site was reported to be west of the Monte Real NDB, which is located about 60 miles north of Lisbon, Portugal.

Search and Recovery

Neither the pilot nor the airplane were found during search operations. However, searchers located safety and location equipment from the aircraft.

Pilot Status

The pilot was presumed to have been fatally injured or to have died as a result of the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03547. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.