2 fatalities

Aircraft Crashes During Go-Around at Catalina Island (N2239M)

Avalon, CA, US

On January 3, 1983, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N2239M) operated by Peninsula Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Avalon, CA. 2 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 6 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

An aircraft crashed during a go-around at Catalina Island, fatally injuring the front seat occupants and seriously injuring the two rear seat passengers. The pilot lacked recent landing currency and used a runway opposite to the advised direction.

Accident Overview

An aircraft crashed during an attempted go-around at Catalina Island. The front seat occupants were fatally injured, and the two rear seat passengers received serious injuries. The pilot had not completed the required three takeoffs and landings within the preceding 90 days as mandated by FAR 61.75(c).

Go-Around and Runway Selection

The pilot applied power for a go-around when he was over halfway down the runway. Prior to landing, the pilot had been advised by UNICOM to use Runway 4, but he used Runway 22. The wind was from 040 degrees at 11 knots, favoring Runway 4.

Aircraft Condition

During the investigation, there was no indication of an engine malfunction. The flaps were found positioned in the full down position.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Jan 1983 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Avalon, CA?

An aircraft crashed during a go-around at Catalina Island, fatally injuring the front seat occupants and seriously injuring the two rear seat passengers. The pilot lacked recent landing currency and used a runway opposite to the advised direction.

Were there any fatalities in the 3 Jan 1983 Piper PA-28-161 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Jan 1983 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N2239M, operated by Peninsula Aviation, at Avalon, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X42017. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.