Accident Details
On April 22, 2025, at approximately 13:25 central daylight time, a Cessna T210N, registration N4795C, was involved in an accident near Fayetteville, Arkansas. The flight was operated as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The pilot and two passengers were not injured.
Events Leading to Accident
According to the pilot, the flight departed from Drake Field Airport (FYV) in Fayetteville. While about 14 nautical miles from the airport, the alternator light illuminated and smoke began emanating from under the instrument panel. The pilot decided to divert back to FYV. Approximately 5 nautical miles from the airport, oil sprayed onto the windshield, and fire was observed coming from underneath the cowling. The engine subsequently seized, and the propeller stopped. The pilot glided the airplane back to FYV.
Aircraft Damage
Upon landing, the landing gear collapsed during runway contact, and the airplane slid off the runway. The fuselage and horizontal stabilizer sustained substantial damage.
Investigation
The airplane was retained for further examination to determine the cause of the engine failure and subsequent damage.