What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-09-09 involved a Cessna 210L, registration N93860, at Monterey, CA.

Loss of Engine Power on Approach Results in Collision with Tree (N93860)

On September 9, 2003, a Cessna 210L (registration N93860) was involved in an aviation accident near Monterey, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s inadequate in-flight planning/decision, which resulted in a loss of engine power during an instrument approach to land, and an in-flight collision with a tree and terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

A pilot reported engine power loss during an instrument approach, leading to a collision with a tree short of the runway. Postaccident inspection found no mechanical anomalies, but fuel was absent at the scene.

Incident Overview

A pilot experienced a loss of engine power while conducting an instrument approach to an airport. Unable to reach the runway, the aircraft collided with a tree short of the intended landing area.

Postaccident Inspection

A postaccident inspection of the airplane and its engine revealed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical anomalies. The aircraft and engine appeared to have been functioning normally prior to the loss of power.

Fuel Observations

Initial responders to the accident site noted the absence of a fuel smell and no visible fuel at the location. One wing, which contained fuel tanks, had separated from the aircraft during the collision. No fuel stains were discovered on any part of the airplane, suggesting a possible lack of fuel at the time of the incident.

Conclusions

The investigation did not identify any mechanical failures that could account for the loss of engine power. The lack of fuel evidence at the scene raises questions about fuel management, but no definitive cause was established.

2003-09-09: Cessna 210L (N93860) — Monterey, CA