Cessna P206B N50LP accident near Spring Branch, Texas

Probable cause

A loss of engine power due to fuel contamination.

NTSB analysis

The pilot and passenger were returning to the airport after performing a maintenance test flight. While descending through 2,500 feet mean sea level, the airplane's engine abruptly lost total power. The pilot switched fuel tanks and attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful. He then selected an open area and performed a forced landing. During the landing the airplane impacted terrain resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage and wing spar. During recovery of the airplane, the recovery crew drained approximately 10 gallons from the right fuel tank and found the left fuel tank empty. An examination of the airplane's fuel system revealed debris partially obstructing the filter of the fuel mixture unit. No other filters contained this debris and the source of the debris could not be determined. The fuel lines were opened and absent of fuel from the auxiliary fuel pump to the fuel manifold. Fuel was observed within the fuel manifold.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN10LA256 for the full record.