RV-10
Flight Crew Private
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 72; Flight Crew Total 169; Flight Crew Type 169
Situational Awareness; Communication Breakdown; Time Pressure
Ground Event / Encounter Other / Unknown; Ground Incursion Runway; Inflight Event / Encounter Fuel Issue
Flight Crew Diverted
Weather; Procedure; Human Factors; Airport
I intended to land at ZZZ. However; fuel consumption had been greater than expected as a result of a greatly strengthening headwind over the last couple hours. I diverted to ZZZ1 to refuel. The problem is that the airport was closed. On approach I listened to the AWOS and there was no mention of the airport being closed. On the CTAF; I listened to a helicopter announce its approach and landing. I announced my approach multiple times on inbound and in the pattern. As I approached for landing; I could see an X at the end of the runway. Then an individual stated the runway of intended use was closed. I asked multiple times if the other runway was open but there was no response. I stated we were low on fuel and a response would be greatly appreciated. A new person came on the radio and stated that there was no activity on the runway and that we could land avoiding the X at the end of the runway. We then landed and discovered the person speaking on the radio was the head of the construction crew that was working in the parking lot and near the taxiway at the airport. He stated the airport had been closed for the winter. We called the local FBO and found we were not able to fuel there as they had left for the winter. We found the helicopter that had landed was using jet fuel. With about 10 gallons of fuel remaining; dark approaching with little moonlight and clouds; I had determined it would be safest to land at ZZZ1 rather than push to the next airport and risk running out of fuel. We hitched a ride to the next airport ZZZ2. The next morning; we rented a car; obtained fuel; and returned to ZZZ1. We met with the onsite construction manager who announced to those working near the taxiway to clear the area. Then the construction manager removed the X at the end of the runway and stated we could take the runway for departure.
RV-10 Pilot reported landing at a closed airport after diverting for fuel.