Cessna A185F N8WF accident near Monument Hills, California

Probable cause

A total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that he departed on the 20-nautical-mile flight with 70 gallons of fuel onboard. About 5 miles from the destination airport, the engine lost total power, and the pilot selected a field for a forced landing. During the landing roll, the airplane nosed over and came to rest inverted, which resulted in substantial damage to the rudder and right wing.

Data downloaded from the airplane’s engine monitor indicated that the airplane departed with about 66 gallons of fuel and flew for about 29 minutes when the engine lost power. The last recorded data point indicated about 52 gallons of fuel remaining. Recovery personnel stated that when they arrived at the accident site, they observed fuel leaking from the airplane and recovered 30 gallons of fuel from the airplane. Samples did not indicate evidence of fuel contamination. Based on the flight time, the airplane’s estimated fuel consumption, and the amount of fuel recovered from the airplane, it was likely that sufficient fuel was available for the flight.

Examination of the airplane and fuel-injected engine revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR24LA193 for the full record.