Casualties unknown

Aircraft Runs Off Wet Runway After Tailwind Landing; Pilot Reports Flap Misunderstanding (N700D)

Rockland, ME, US

On May 12, 1984, a Piper PA-31S 2 (registration N700D) was involved in an aviation accident near Rockland, ME. 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 overran a wet runway after the pilot opted for a straight-in tailwind landing due to low clouds, touching down with about 2,000 feet remaining. The pilot later discovered the flaps were still half extended.

Incident Overview

Following an instrument approach to Runway 03, the pilot decided to land straight in with a tailwind rather than executing a circling approach, citing low clouds surrounding the airport. The aircraft touched down on the wet runway with approximately 2,000 feet of pavement remaining. It continued past the end of the runway and contacted an embankment.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that during the landing roll, he believed the flaps had been raised to assist with braking. However, after the accident, he discovered that the flaps were still half extended.

Investigation Notes

The investigation focused on the pilot's decision-making regarding the tailwind landing and the flap configuration. No further details were provided in the preliminary report.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 May 1984 Piper PA-31S 2 accident near Rockland, ME?

An aircraft overran a wet runway after the pilot opted for a straight-in tailwind landing due to low clouds, touching down with about 2,000 feet remaining. The pilot later discovered the flaps were still half extended.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 May 1984 involved a Piper PA-31S 2, registration N700D, at Rockland, ME.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X39720. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.