Accident Overview
On September 5, 2011, about 1420 mountain daylight time, a Cessna T210M (registration N761NZ) was substantially damaged when it impacted terrain following a loss of engine power during an aborted landing at Shively Field Airport (SAA) in Saratoga, Wyoming. The private pilot and three passengers suffered serious injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and an instrument flight rules flight plan was filed.
Flight Sequence
The cross-country flight originated from Wichita, Kansas, approximately 1145 central daylight time, with an intended destination of SAA. The pilot reported that during the approach to runway 23, wind pushed the airplane left of the runway centerline, prompting a decision to abort the landing and initiate a go-around. As the airplane neared the departure end of the runway, the engine experienced a complete loss of power. The pilot executed a forced landing straight ahead to an open area on the airport property. During the landing roll, the airplane struck an airport perimeter fence and impacted a road embankment, subsequently nosing over.
Post-Accident Examination
Local law enforcement found the wreckage inverted about 800 feet beyond runway 23. The left wing and fuselage sustained structural damage. Recovery personnel reported that during wreckage recovery, more than 10 gallons of fuel was drained from each wing fuel tank.
Examination of the recovered airframe revealed that the empennage and both wings had been removed during recovery. Flight control cable continuity was established from the cockpit to all primary flight controls; all separations were cut or disconnected by recovery personnel. The flap actuator was found at the 30-degree (fully extended) position, while the cockpit flap handle and indicator indicated 10 degrees. The cockpit trim actuator was measured at a position consistent with elevator trim at the tab up, 15-degree position; the trim indicator was destroyed by impact.
The airframe fuel strainer was free of debris and contained a small amount of liquid consistent with 100 low-lead fuel; water finding paste tested negative. Fuel system continuity was established, though impact damage was noted to portions of the fuel line between the fuel selector valve and gascolator. Both wing fuel vents were unobstructed.
Engine Examination
The fuel-injected Continental Motors TSIO-520-R engine (serial number 512558) remained partially attached to the airframe. Top spark plugs, fuel pump, and rocker box covers were removed. All cylinders were inspected with a lighted borescope; internal combustion chambers, valve faces, and piston heads were unremarkable. The crankshaft was rotated by hand via the propeller, establishing rotational continuity throughout the engine and valve train. Thumb compression was obtained on all six cylinders, and both magnetos produced spark on all ignition leads.
No evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunction was noted during examination of the recovered airframe and engine.