Casualties unknown

Post-Inspection Flight Ends with Highway Landing and Fire (N30027)

Howell, MI, US

On October 1, 1983, a Piper PA-32RT-300 (registration N30027) was involved in an aviation accident near Howell, MI. 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 experienced partial power loss shortly after takeoff, leading to a forced landing on an interstate highway median. A post-landing fire caused extensive damage, but examination found no preimpact failures.

Incident Overview

An aircraft on its first flight following an annual inspection experienced a partial power loss during takeoff at approximately 200 feet above ground level. The pilot initiated a turn back toward the airport but subsequently elected to land on or near the median of an interstate highway.

Sequence of Events

During the landing, a wingtip dragged on the shoulder of the interstate. The aircraft slid approximately 200 feet and came to rest on the shoulder. Approximately 5 to 10 minutes after coming to rest, the aircraft began to burn, resulting in extensive fire damage.

Examination

An examination of the airframe and powerplant found no preimpact part failure or malfunction.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Oct 1983 Piper PA-32RT-300 accident near Howell, MI?

An aircraft experienced partial power loss shortly after takeoff, leading to a forced landing on an interstate highway median. A post-landing fire caused extensive damage, but examination found no preimpact failures.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Oct 1983 involved a Piper PA-32RT-300, registration N30027, at Howell, MI.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44768. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.