N7646M

On November 3, 1993, at 1628 Pacific standard time, a Cessna 175, N7646M, nosed over during a forced landing near Palm Springs, California, following a loss of engine power. The aircraft was owned and operated by the pilot. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed for the operation. The aircraft incurred substantial damage. Both the certificated commercial pilot and his one passenger sustained minor injuries. The flight originated at Hollister, California, on the day of the mishap at about 1315 hours as a personal cross- country flight to Palm Springs.

In his statement, the pilot reported that the aircraft was descending toward Palm Springs after an uneventful flight. He stated that both wing fuel tanks were filled to capacity before departure. About eight miles from the airport as the aircraft descended through about 8,000 feet, the engine stopped. The pilot set up a best glide configuration; however, landed short of the airport in soft sand. When the nose gear touched down, the nose gear collapsed and the aircraft nosed over.

The aircraft retrieval firm which recovered the aircraft reported that they observed no fuel spill on the ground under the aircraft, and no fuel stains were noted around the tank caps or vents. Total fuel system continuity was established from the tanks to the engine. One quarter of a gallon of fuel was drained from the left tank while less than five gallons were drained from the right tank. According to the Cessna Aircraft Owners Manual for the aircraft, each wing fuel tank has a 26 gallon capacity, 21 of which is usable.