No fatalities

Fuel Restriction from Hex Bolt Found in Engine After Power Loss During Landing (N9544T)

Henderson, NV, US

On June 30, 2003, a Cessna 210 (registration N9544T) was involved in an aviation accident near Henderson, NV. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A 3/16-inch hex bolt protruding into the engine fuel port restricted fuel flow, leading to a loss of engine power. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot lost engine power in the landing pattern and landed short of the runway. A post-accident examination found a hex bolt restricting fuel flow in the engine fuel port.

Accident Sequence

The pilot reported a loss of engine power while in the landing pattern. Despite attempts to restart the engine, the airplane landed short of the runway and sustained structural damage.

Post-Accident Examination

A post-accident engine examination did not reveal any mechanical malfunctions. The fuel selector was removed for inspection. Inside, a 3/16-inch hex bolt was found protruding into one of the engine fuel ports, effectively restricting the flow of fuel to the engine.

Engine Examination Findings

The spark plugs were examined and compared to a manufacturer's condition chart. The comparison disclosed lean operating signatures.

Probable cause

A 3/16-inch hex bolt protruding into the engine fuel port restricted fuel flow, leading to a loss of engine power.

All Cessna 210 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Jun 2003 Cessna 210 accident near Henderson, NV?

A pilot lost engine power in the landing pattern and landed short of the runway. A post-accident examination found a hex bolt restricting fuel flow in the engine fuel port.

Were there any fatalities in the 30 Jun 2003 Cessna 210 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Jun 2003 involved a Cessna 210, registration N9544T, at Henderson, NV.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A 3/16-inch hex bolt protruding into the engine fuel port restricted fuel flow, leading to a loss of engine power.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030701X00985. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.