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Fatal Aircraft Crash Near Columbus-John Glenn Airport (N5977M)

Pataskala, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On July 3, 1972, a Cessna 421B Golden Eagle II (registration N5977M) operated by Private United States of America was involved in an aviation accident near Pataskala, United States of America during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was caused by the incapacitation of the pilot. Contributing factors included low ceiling and fog, and the pilot had moderate to severe arteriosclerosis. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot was killed when his aircraft struck power cables and trees while approaching Columbus-John Glenn in marginal weather, crashing in Pataskala. The official probable cause was pilot incapacitation.

Incident Overview On approach to Columbus-John Glenn Airport under marginal weather conditions, a single-pilot aircraft descended to an altitude that was too low. The airplane struck power cables and trees, stalled, and crashed in Pataskala, approximately 10.5 miles east of the airport. ## Outcome The aircraft was destroyed in the crash. The pilot, who was the sole occupant on board, was killed. ## Probable Cause The official investigation determined that the accident was caused by the incapacitation of the pilot. The report cited low ceiling and fog as contributing conditions and noted that the pilot had moderate to severe arteriosclerosis.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Jul 1972 Cessna 421B Golden Eagle II accident near Pataskala, United States of America?

A pilot was killed when his aircraft struck power cables and trees while approaching Columbus-John Glenn in marginal weather, crashing in Pataskala. The official probable cause was pilot incapacitation.

Were there any fatalities in the 3 Jul 1972 Cessna 421B Golden Eagle II accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Jul 1972 involved a Cessna 421B Golden Eagle II, registration N5977M, operated by Private United States of America, at Pataskala, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by the incapacitation of the pilot. Contributing factors included low ceiling and fog, and the pilot had moderate to severe arteriosclerosis.

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