Casualties unknown

Aircraft Overruns Wet Runway into Ravine After Multiple Missed Approaches (N5548P)

Platteville, WI, US

On April 26, 1983, a Piper PA-24-180 (registration N5548P) was involved in an aviation accident near Platteville, WI. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft landed on a wet 2,200-foot runway in crosswind conditions after two go-arounds. Poor braking and a high point on the runway left insufficient room, causing the aircraft to exit the runway into a ravine.

Arrival and Landing Attempts

On approach, the pilot entered the traffic pattern to land on runway 27 in crosswind conditions. The runway was 2,200 feet long and wet from light rain. After two go-arounds, a landing was made on the third approach.

Runway Conditions and Braking

Upon landing, the pilot reported braking as poor to nil. After cresting the top of a high point on the runway, the pilot realized there was insufficient remaining distance to either go around or stop within the landing area.

Runway Excursion

The aircraft continued off the runway and entered a ravine.

Wind Information

The pilot estimated the wind was from the south-southwest at 18 knots, gusting to 21 knots. At Madison, Wisconsin, the 0800 CDT wind was from 180 degrees at 16 knots.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X42645. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.