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Engine Power Loss Leads to Collision with Trees Near Bolivar, Tennessee (N6ZZ)

Bolivar, TN, US

On February 13, 2003, a Cessna P210N (registration N6ZZ) was involved in an aviation accident near Bolivar, TN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. A factor was trees. 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 cruise flight at 6,000 feet, a pilot experienced decreasing engine power and declared an emergency. Despite vectors to an airport, the airplane collided with trees five miles south of the field. Post-crash examination revealed heavy fire damage but no engine abnormalities.

Incident Overview

While cruising at an altitude of 6,000 feet, the pilot noticed a decrease in engine power. The engine continued to operate but failed to produce full power. The pilot attempted multiple times to restore full engine power, but these efforts were unsuccessful.

Emergency Response

The pilot radioed Memphis Approach Control and reported an in-flight emergency due to engine failure. The air traffic controller provided radar vectors to William L. Whitehurst Field in Bolivar, Tennessee. However, the airplane collided with trees approximately five miles south of the airport.

Post-Crash Examination

Examination of the airplane after the accident revealed that it had sustained heavy fire damage. A thorough inspection of the engine showed no abnormalities that could account for the power loss.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Feb 2003 Cessna P210N accident near Bolivar, TN?

During cruise flight at 6,000 feet, a pilot experienced decreasing engine power and declared an emergency. Despite vectors to an airport, the airplane collided with trees five miles south of the field. Post-crash examination revealed heavy fire damage but no engine abnormalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Feb 2003 involved a Cessna P210N, registration N6ZZ, at Bolivar, TN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. A factor was trees.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030214X00218. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.