On July 2, 1997, a Cessna A185F (registration N5054R) operated by Jerry T. Gonsoulin was involved in an aviation accident near Bay St. Louis, MS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper short field landing procedure and use of full flaps prior to being assured of reaching the proper touchdown point, resulting in an in-flight collision with an embankment, and subsequent nose over. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported that during a short approach with full flaps, the airplane began sinking; adding power caused the engine to quit. The airplane struck an embankment and nosed over. Fuel examination found low quantities in both tanks, with the selector on the left tank.
Incident Overview
According to the pilot's statement, the aircraft was being flown on a short approach with full flaps deployed. During the approach, the airplane began to sink. The pilot added power in an attempt to arrest the descent, at which point the engine ceased operating. The airplane subsequently collided with an embankment and nosed over.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the fuel tanks was conducted following the accident. The left fuel tank contained approximately 2 quarts of fuel, while the right fuel tank contained approximately 2 gallons of fuel. The fuel selector valve was found positioned on the left fuel tank. Examination of the fuel system, ignition system, and fuel injection components revealed no anomalies; all inspected components of these systems operated normally.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that the airplane was configured for a short approach with full flaps. The engine quit after power was added in response to the airplane sinking. No other operational issues were reported prior to the engine failure.