Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Wires During Go-Around After People Reportedly Enter Runway (N33544)

Middle Bass Isl, OH, US

On July 10, 1983, a Piper PA28-140 (registration N33544) was involved in an aviation accident near Middle Bass Isl, OH. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft collided with wires during a go-around attempt after the pilot reported seeing people walk onto the runway at low altitude. Passengers corroborated the account, but ground witnesses denied walking onto the runway.

Incident

An aircraft collided with wires and subsequently crashed into a lake during a go-around attempt. The accident occurred after the pilot initiated a go-around due to people reportedly walking onto the runway.

Pilot Account

The pilot reported that during the approach, at an altitude of approximately 10 to 15 feet above ground level, he observed some individuals walking onto the runway. He added full power to abort the landing. While regaining control of the aircraft during the go-around, the aircraft struck wires and crashed into a lake.

Passenger Account

Passengers aboard the aircraft stated that they saw people walking toward the center of the runway, consistent with the pilot's account.

Witness Account

People on the ground observed the aircraft circle and approach on a 45-degree angle far north of the runway. They denied walking toward the center of the runway or onto the runway itself.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 Jul 1983 Piper PA28-140 accident near Middle Bass Isl, OH?

An aircraft collided with wires during a go-around attempt after the pilot reported seeing people walk onto the runway at low altitude. Passengers corroborated the account, but ground witnesses denied walking onto the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 Jul 1983 involved a Piper PA28-140, registration N33544, at Middle Bass Isl, OH.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X43666. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.