On May 25, 2005, a Cessna 210L (registration N5120Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Harvey, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. A contributing factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A commercial pilot on a 10-minute repositioning flight experienced an engine power loss after reducing power for landing. The pilot executed a forced landing in a drainage ditch with the gear retracted. Subsequent tests found no mechanical deficiencies or fuel contamination.
Accident Overview
A commercial pilot with 520 hours of flight experience departed on a repositioning flight expected to last 10 minutes. During the approach, the pilot reduced power in preparation to land. At that moment, the engine stopped producing power. Unable to maintain altitude, the pilot performed a forced landing to a drainage ditch. The landing gear was retracted during the touchdown.
Post-Accident Investigation
Following the accident, investigators removed approximately 23.5 gallons of fuel from each wing. Examination of the fuel revealed no debris or water contamination. The engine was subsequently test-run on the airframe using the airplane's fuel system. The engine started immediately and operated without interruption throughout the test. No mechanical deficiencies were identified.
Findings
The investigation found no evidence of mechanical malfunction or fuel system issues. The engine's performance during the post-accident test run was normal, and the fuel was uncontaminated.