Light Aircraft Overruns Runway Due to Wind Shear and Eddy Currents

Casualties unknown • Point Lookout, MO, US

A light aircraft landed long on a runway with variable winds and eddy current warnings, overrunning the pavement and sliding down an embankment after two approach attempts.

What happened

The pilot contacted the airport UNICOM frequency during arrival to obtain weather information. The advisory indicated that wind conditions were variable between 190 and 210 degrees at 10 knots, with gusts reaching 15 knots. The initial approach was conducted at a speed of 95 mph with full flaps extended. Near the end of the runway, the pilot encountered wind shear, prompting a decision to execute a go-around.

A second approach was initiated without the use of flaps. Wind shear was encountered again during this attempt. The aircraft subsequently landed beyond the intended touchdown point. Unable to stop within the remaining runway length, the pilot steered the aircraft to the right to avoid an embankment located near the end of the pavement. After leaving the runway surface, the aircraft slid down a steep incline.

Notably, the current airport/facility directory contained a specific remark warning of eddy currents near runway ends and advising light aircraft to land long.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1983-07-03 Piper PA-23-250 accident near Point Lookout, MO?

A light aircraft landed long on a runway with variable winds and eddy current warnings, overrunning the pavement and sliding down an embankment after two approach attempts.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1983-07-03 involved a Piper PA-23-250, registration N5270Y, at Point Lookout, MO.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X43875. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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