Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Final Approach Leads to Forced Landing on Snow-Covered Parking Lot (N732DZ)

Des Moines, IA, US

On December 31, 1983, a Cessna 210L (registration N732DZ) was involved in an aviation accident near Des Moines, IA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft departed Toronto, Canada and lost engine power on final approach. The pilot executed a forced landing on a snow-covered parking lot, colliding with a vehicle and a light pole. Inspection revealed minimal fuel in tanks and strainer, with no broken lines or syphoning evidence.

Accident Details

An aircraft departed Toronto, Canada at 1927 CST. Approximately five hours and one minute later, during final approach for landing, the engine lost power. The pilot subsequently executed a forced landing on a snow-covered parking lot. During this landing, the aircraft collided with a vehicle and a light pole.

Fuel System Examination

Following the accident, an FAA inspector examined the fuel system. The inspection found approximately 2 ounces of fuel in the left fuel tank, 1 ounce in the right tank, and 3 ounces in the fuel strainer. No broken fuel lines were discovered, and there was no evidence of fuel syphoning.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Dec 1983 Cessna 210L accident near Des Moines, IA?

An aircraft departed Toronto, Canada and lost engine power on final approach. The pilot executed a forced landing on a snow-covered parking lot, colliding with a vehicle and a light pole. Inspection revealed minimal fuel in tanks and strainer, with no broken lines or syphoning evidence.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Dec 1983 involved a Cessna 210L, registration N732DZ, at Des Moines, IA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X45386. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.