Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Strikes Parked Aircraft During Touch-and-Go (N31883)

Atlanta, GA, US

On June 19, 1982, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N31883) operated by Henry Warner was involved in an aviation accident near Atlanta, GA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot struck three parked aircraft during a touch-and-go landing when the airplane swerved left after takeoff power was added. The pilot reported he was distracted while retracting the flaps and may have encountered a gust of wind.

Incident Details

A student pilot was practicing touch-and-go landings in winds that were variable from 330 to 340 degrees at 10 knots. During the second touch-and-go, the aircraft touched down normally. However, as it was accelerating for takeoff, the plane suddenly swerved to the left and subsequently struck three parked aircraft.

Aircraft Damage

A Beech 58 sustained substantial damage. Minor damage was reported to a Piper PA-31 and a Beech 35.

Pilot Statement

The student reported that after adding power for takeoff, he realized he had neglected to raise the flaps. He stated that the plane swerved as he reached to retract the flaps. He suspected that a gust of wind was encountered as he was distracted with adjusting his flaps. He also noted that he was using his shoulder harness and believed this prevented him from sustaining more serious injuries.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Jun 1982 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Atlanta, GA?

A student pilot struck three parked aircraft during a touch-and-go landing when the airplane swerved left after takeoff power was added. The pilot reported he was distracted while retracting the flaps and may have encountered a gust of wind.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Jun 1982 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N31883, operated by Henry Warner, at Atlanta, GA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02753. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.