How Not to Fall Off Your Airplane

An airfield accident while refueling a Cessna 170 leads to powerful lessons.

Wednesday, November 09, 2022 at 11:36 AM ET

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Had the 170 been equipped with foot steps and handholds, or had the nearby stepladder been utilized, this scene would have never taken place. [Courtesy: Paul Cooley]

Key Takeaways:

The author broke three ribs after falling from his airplane while fueling, highlighting the importance of rigorous safety practices even during routine ground operations.
Immediate assistance from bystanders and ongoing support from friends and family proved crucial, demonstrating the value of a strong community network in emergencies.
The incident led to key lessons learned, including the necessity of using proper safety equipment (e.g., stepladders, handholds), establishing emergency contacts, and carrying a satellite communicator in areas with poor reception.

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The 911 dispatcher was very confused. “Wait, you’re saying he fell out of his airplane? Where is the airplane now?” she asked. Patty, the woman who ran to my aid, clarified, “No, he fell OFF of his airplane. He wasn’t flying at the time. The airplane’s right here.”

Patty went on to explain to the dispatcher that I had been fueling my airplane when I lost my footing, fell to the concrete, and was now in excruciating pain. Bones were probably broken, but my head appeared to be fine. The dispatcher, finally understanding the situation, advised that an ambulance was en route and would be on the scene shortly.