Casualties unknown

Pilot anxiety leads to runway excursion and wing damage after delayed abort (N1656J)

Winslow, AR, US

On August 24, 1983, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N1656J) was involved in an aviation accident near Winslow, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's delayed decision to abort the landing due to anxiety from a previous accident, which led to a collision with a stump and subsequent damage to the right wing. 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 2026-06-23Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot's anxiety from a previous accident at the same airstrip caused him to delay aborting a long landing, resulting in a collision with a stump that damaged the right wing upon exiting the runway.

What happened

The pilot reported that psychological pressure significantly impacted his decision-making during the approach phase of the flight. Specifically, he stated that anxiety stemming from a prior accident at this same airstrip delayed his decision to abort a long landing. The previous incident had occurred during takeoff in February, creating a lingering concern that affected his current performance.

Upon touchdown, the pilot attempted to turn at the end of the runway. However, the aircraft collided with a stump located near the runway edge. This impact resulted in damage to the right wing of the aircraft.

Probable cause

The pilot's delayed decision to abort the landing due to anxiety from a previous accident, which led to a collision with a stump and subsequent damage to the right wing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Aug 1983 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Winslow, AR?

A pilot's anxiety from a previous accident at the same airstrip caused him to delay aborting a long landing, resulting in a collision with a stump that damaged the right wing upon exiting the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Aug 1983 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N1656J, at Winslow, AR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's delayed decision to abort the landing due to anxiety from a previous accident, which led to a collision with a stump and subsequent damage to the right wing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44185. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.