Casualties unknown

Aircraft Crashes on Warehouse Roof After Reported Engine Power Loss (N4675Q)

Buena Park, CA, US

On December 17, 1988, a Cessna T210L (registration N4675Q) was involved in an aviation accident near Buena Park, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT USED POOR JUDGEMENT IN BEGINNING THE FLIGHT WITH INADEQUATE FUEL; HIS FAILURE TO FOLLOW NORMAL V.F.R. PROCEDURES; AND HIS POOR PREFLIGHT INSPECTION. 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 private pilot ferrying an aircraft from Riverside experienced a loss of engine power while on base leg at Fullerton Municipal Airport. The aircraft entered a steep descent and crashed onto a warehouse roof, with less than three gallons of fuel found in the tanks.

Overview

A private pilot was ferrying an aircraft from Riverside, where maintenance had been performed. Approximately 20 minutes after takeoff, the flight entered the north downwind for runway 6 at Fullerton Municipal Airport. The pilot reported a loss of engine power while the aircraft was turning onto the base leg for landing.

Accident Sequence

Witnesses reported that the aircraft initially appeared to be in a glide for an emergency landing. However, when it was about 100 to 150 feet above some warehouse buildings, it entered a steep descent and crashed onto the roof of a warehouse.

Investigation Findings

During the investigation, less than 3 gallons of fuel were found in the fuel tanks, and no evidence of fuel spillage was noted. No preimpact part failure or malfunction was discovered.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Dec 1988 Cessna T210L accident near Buena Park, CA?

A private pilot ferrying an aircraft from Riverside experienced a loss of engine power while on base leg at Fullerton Municipal Airport. The aircraft entered a steep descent and crashed onto a warehouse roof, with less than three gallons of fuel found in the tanks.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Dec 1988 involved a Cessna T210L, registration N4675Q, at Buena Park, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT USED POOR JUDGEMENT IN BEGINNING THE FLIGHT WITH INADEQUATE FUEL; HIS FAILURE TO FOLLOW NORMAL V.F.R. PROCEDURES; AND HIS POOR PREFLIGHT INSPECTION.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X27434. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.