Cessna 210 N1235U accident near Dallas, Texas

Probable cause

A temporary loss of engine power during the takeoff due to a damaged fuel pump, which resulted in a forced landing and a runway excursion. The source of the damage to the fuel pump could not be determined.

NTSB analysis

The airline transport pilot reported he felt and heard a fluctuation in the engine power during the initial climb. The fluctuation was followed by “dashes” on the fuel flow monitor. The pilot decided to abort the takeoff and during descent, noticed full power return to the engine. During the landing, the nosewheel impacted the runway, the airplane rolled off the runway, and impacted a ditch. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, the left wing, and the empennage.

A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine was performed. Both fuel tanks and the fuel lines appeared to be free of any contaminants. Fuel was drained from the airframe and appeared to be light blue in color and free of any contaminants. The fuel strainer was opened, and an unknown white substance was noted. Contaminants were also found in the gascolator.

The fuel pump was removed and successfully bench tested. Following completion of the test, a disassembly examination of the fuel pump revealed damage to the pump’s internal components that was sustained some time before the accident flight. No containments were found inside of the fuel pump and the source of the internal damage to the fuel pump could not be determined.

Based on the available evidence, the source of the engine power fluctuation was likely due to internal damage of the fuel pump.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN22LA018 for the full record.