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Casualties unknown

Aircraft Runs Off Runway After Landing Bounce and Swerve (N15878)

North Andover, MA, US

On May 13, 1982, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N15878) operated by George Graham was involved in an aviation accident near North Andover, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control after a landing bounce, which resulted in the aircraft running off the runway into a drainage ditch. 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 2026-06-23Data APIEditorial standards

During landing on runway 05, an aircraft bounced, swerved right upon nosewheel contact, and exited into a drainage ditch after rudder controls failed to correct the direction.

What happened

The incident occurred during the landing phase of flight. The aircraft initially bounced upon initial contact with runway 05 before settling back onto the pavement. Upon lowering the nosewheel, the aircraft immediately swerved to the right side of the runway.

According to the pilot's account, standard corrective actions were attempted but proved ineffective. Manipulation of the rudder pedals failed to alter either the direction or the rate of the turn. Consequently, the aircraft departed the paved surface and came to rest in a nearby drainage ditch adjacent to the runway.

The investigation

The primary focus of the examination was the pilot's report regarding control responsiveness. The investigation confirmed that the rudder pedals did not produce the expected yaw response during the critical phase of ground handling.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control after a landing bounce, which resulted in the aircraft running off the runway into a drainage ditch.
Runway excursion

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 May 1982 Piper PA-28-140 accident near North Andover, MA?

During landing on runway 05, an aircraft bounced, swerved right upon nosewheel contact, and exited into a drainage ditch after rudder controls failed to correct the direction.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 May 1982 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N15878, operated by George Graham, at North Andover, MA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control after a landing bounce, which resulted in the aircraft running off the runway into a drainage ditch.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03908. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.