On February 7, 1982, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N16524) operated by Caroline Kang/ca. Mccluney Co. was involved in an aviation accident near Kalaupapa, HI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to initiate a go-around too late, resulting in an overrun of the runway into adjacent lava boulders. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft touched down on runway 5 with west winds, then attempted a go-around near the end of the pavement. The plane overshot by 180 feet, coming to rest in lava boulders.
What happened
Witnesses reported that the aircraft made its initial touchdown approximately halfway down runway 5 during conditions with winds blowing from the west. As the pilot approached the end of the usable runway surface, she attempted to initiate a go-around by applying full throttle.
Despite the attempt to climb out, the maneuver was executed too late to prevent an overrun. The aircraft continued past the departure end of the runway and came to rest 180 feet beyond the pavement edge. The final resting place was among three-foot-high lava boulders in the surrounding terrain.
The investigation
The investigation relied heavily on witness accounts regarding the landing position and wind conditions. No mechanical examination details were provided in the source material regarding the aircraft's systems or performance capabilities during the go-around attempt.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to initiate a go-around too late, resulting in an overrun of the runway into adjacent lava boulders.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 7 Feb 1982 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Kalaupapa, HI?
An aircraft touched down on runway 5 with west winds, then attempted a go-around near the end of the pavement. The plane overshot by 180 feet, coming to rest in lava boulders.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 7 Feb 1982 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N16524, operated by Caroline Kang/ca. Mccluney Co., at Kalaupapa, HI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to initiate a go-around too late, resulting in an overrun of the runway into adjacent lava boulders.
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