Casualties unknown

Pilot Attempts Go-Around, Aircraft Impacts Water (N8635W)

Put IN Bay, OH, US

On August 19, 1984, a Piper PA-28-235 (registration N8635W) operated by Louis H. Covas was involved in an aviation accident near Put IN Bay, 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

A pilot initiated a go-around upon seeing another aircraft on the runway. Witnesses saw the aircraft make a sharp right turn with wings nearly vertical before impacting the water in a right wing low attitude. The pilot's logbook showed no flights in the previous six months.

Accident Sequence

The pilot attempted a go-around after observing an aircraft still on the runway. According to witnesses, the aircraft approached the runway and, just before touchdown, executed a sharp right turn to initiate the go-around. During this maneuver, the aircraft banked steeply, with witnesses describing the wings as being 90 degrees to the horizon. The aircraft subsequently struck the water in a right wing low attitude.

Witness Observations

Multiple witnesses reported seeing the aircraft approach the runway normally before the abrupt turn. They noted that the turn was sharp and the aircraft's wings became nearly vertical. The impact with the water occurred shortly after the turn, with the right wing leading.

Pilot Background

Examination of the pilot's logbook revealed that his last flight prior to this accident was six months earlier. No further details about the pilot's experience or qualifications were provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Aug 1984 Piper PA-28-235 accident near Put IN Bay, OH?

A pilot initiated a go-around upon seeing another aircraft on the runway. Witnesses saw the aircraft make a sharp right turn with wings nearly vertical before impacting the water in a right wing low attitude. The pilot's logbook showed no flights in the previous six months.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Aug 1984 involved a Piper PA-28-235, registration N8635W, operated by Louis H. Covas, at Put IN Bay, OH.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X40610. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.