Casualties unknown

Hard Landing and Go-Around Attempt Ends with Aircraft Striking Fence Posts (N707FL)

Silver City, NM, US

On October 5, 1984, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N707FL) operated by Warren Sparks was involved in an aviation accident near Silver City, NM. 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 reported a hard landing on runway 33 due to a downdraft, followed by an unsuccessful go-around that resulted in the aircraft striking fence posts and settling to the ground.

Accident Overview

According to the pilot's statement after the incident, he was attempting to land on runway 33. He reported that just before the landing flare, a "terrific downdraft" forced the aircraft down onto the runway, resulting in a hard landing. The pilot then attempted a go-around.

Sequence of Events

During the go-around, the pilot said the aircraft "did not fly right" after the initial hard bounce and veered to the right. The aircraft subsequently struck several fence posts and then settled to the ground. The pilot did not specify any additional details about the aircraft's condition or control responses.

Wind Conditions

The wind at the time was reported as coming from 270 degrees at 5 knots, with gusts up to 10 knots. No further weather information was provided.

Pilot Statement

The pilot's account is the sole source of information regarding the accident. He did not mention any mechanical issues prior to the incident, and the only environmental factor cited was the downdraft encountered during the landing flare.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Oct 1984 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Silver City, NM?

A pilot reported a hard landing on runway 33 due to a downdraft, followed by an unsuccessful go-around that resulted in the aircraft striking fence posts and settling to the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Oct 1984 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N707FL, operated by Warren Sparks, at Silver City, NM.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X41341. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.