Casualties unknown

Pilot Lands in Parking Lot After Fuel Exhaustion Following Unforeseen Headwind (N22FP)

Columbus, OH, US

On December 11, 1984, a Cessna 210M (registration N22FP) was involved in an aviation accident near Columbus, OH. 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

A pilot reported not refueling before departure, then encountered stronger headwinds than expected. With many en route fuel stops unavailable due to fog, the engine failed near the airport, leading to a landing in a parking lot and collision with a fence.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that he did not have the aircraft refueled prior to departure. Once airborne, he encountered a stronger headwind than anticipated. He stated that most of the possible en route fuel stops were 'down due to fog.' When approximately 18 miles past Port Columbus International Airport, he decided to return and land. The engine failed just inside the outer marker, and the pilot landed in a parking lot, colliding with a chain link fence and nosing over.

Sequence of Events

The pilot departed without refueling. During the flight, stronger-than-expected headwinds increased fuel consumption. Many potential fuel stops along the route were closed due to fog, limiting options. After passing Port Columbus International Airport by about 18 miles, the pilot turned back. The engine failed shortly after reaching the outer marker, leaving insufficient power to reach the runway. The pilot executed a forced landing in a nearby parking lot, where the aircraft struck a chain link fence and nosed over.

Outcome

The aircraft sustained damage from the collision with the fence and the nose-over. No information on injuries or aircraft type was provided in the source.

Probable Cause

The source does not state a probable cause.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Dec 1984 Cessna 210M accident near Columbus, OH?

A pilot reported not refueling before departure, then encountered stronger headwinds than expected. With many en route fuel stops unavailable due to fog, the engine failed near the airport, leading to a landing in a parking lot and collision with a fence.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Dec 1984 involved a Cessna 210M, registration N22FP, at Columbus, OH.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X41739. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.