On June 17, 1995, a Cessna T210N (registration XBGPJ) was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Stockton, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FUEL EXHAUSTION INDUCED POWER LOSS DUE TO THE PILOT BECOMING LOST/DISORIENTED. THE LACK OF SUITABLE TERRAIN FOR THE FORCED LANDING AND THE WEATHER CONDITIONS WERE FACTORS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a ferry flight within Mexico, the pilot became disoriented while navigating around weather. The aircraft drifted into US airspace and was tracked by radar. After engine power loss, a forced landing was attempted in a mesquite tree-covered field, resulting in a nose-over and inverted rest. Post-accident investigation found both fuel tanks empty.
Incident Overview
A ferry flight operating within Mexico encountered difficulties when the pilot became disoriented while attempting to navigate around weather. The aircraft subsequently drifted into United States airspace, where it was tracked by radar. Eventually, the engine lost power, prompting the pilot to attempt a forced landing.
Forced Landing and Outcome
The forced landing was attempted in a field covered with mesquite trees. During the landing flare, the aircraft impacted trees, nosed over, and came to rest in an inverted position. The aircraft's final location was in the tree-covered field.
Post-Accident Investigation
Following the accident, an investigation was conducted. Examination of the aircraft's fuel system revealed that both fuel tanks were empty.