On August 21, 1996, a Cessna 210M (registration N732ST) was involved in an aviation accident near Opa Locka, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper fuel management, which resulted in a loss of engine power due to fuel starvation, a forced landing, and subsequent in flight collision with terrain. The lack of suitable terrain for a forced landing was a related factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot performed a forced landing in the Everglades after an engine failure at 3,000 feet. The engine quit, fuel selector was switched, and restarts failed. Left tank empty; right tank had fuel. Engine test run later successful.
Incident Overview
A pilot reported experiencing an engine failure while cruising at 3,000 feet. According to the pilot, the engine suddenly stopped, and he responded by moving the fuel selector from the left main tank to the right main tank. Two attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful. The pilot subsequently executed a forced landing in the Everglades.
Post-Landing Examination
A visual inspection of the left fuel tank revealed no fuel present; the fuel cap was secure. Fuel was found in the right fuel tank, and that cap was also tight. The wings were undamaged, and no fuel leaks were observed. A review of the aircraft's log books showed no discrepancies related to fuel quantity indications or fuel flow.
Engine Test Run
The airplane was recovered, and the wings were reinstalled to create a pressurized system for an engine test run. The engine started and operated for 17 minutes without issue.