On November 30, 2003, a Cessna T210K (registration N81PC) was involved in an aviation accident near Deming, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper in-flight planning and decision. Factors contributing to the accident were fuel exhaustion and the fence. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During approach, the pilot performed S-turns to lose altitude and switched fuel tanks. When applying power to level off, there was no response. The aircraft touched down short of an intended field and struck a fence, collapsing the nose gear and left main landing gear.
Accident Narrative
The pilot was on approach to the airport. At 5 nautical miles from the airport, the airplane was approximately 4,000 feet above ground level. The pilot lowered the landing gear, set 30 degrees of flaps, and initiated several "S" turns to lose altitude. The pilot reported that at 2 miles from the runway, he switched his fuel selector to the right fuel tank, which contained more fuel. The pilot continued the "S" turns until he was 1/3 mile from the end of the runway. When he applied power to level off, there was no response. The pilot selected a field to the right of his final approach course. The airplane touched down approximately 20 feet short of his intended field. The airplane struck a wrought iron fence, collapsing the nose gear and the left main landing gear.
Examination Findings
An examination of the engine showed no evidence of fuel in the fuel distribution manifold or fuel lines. An examination of the fuel tanks showed some fuel in the right fuel tank. An examination of the airplane's engine controls and remaining systems revealed no anomalies.