Casualties unknown

Pilot Performs Go-Around Due to Livestock, Then Experiences Engine Failure and Forced Landing on Beach (N3562X)

Matagorda Is., TX, US

On March 31, 1985, a Piper PA-28RT-201T (registration N3562X) was involved in an aviation accident near Matagorda Is., TX. 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 executed a VFR go-around on final approach to avoid livestock on the runway, then experienced engine power loss. The aircraft made a forced landing on a beach, flipped inverted, and came to rest in water. The reason for the engine failure is unknown.

Incident Overview

During a VFR approach to a runway, the pilot initiated a go-around after observing livestock on the landing surface. Shortly thereafter, the pilot reported a loss of engine power.

Forced Landing

The aircraft was forced to land on a beach. During the landing, the aircraft flipped inverted and came to rest in the water alongside the beach.

Wreckage and Investigation

The wreckage has not been recovered from the salt water. The cause of the engine failure remains unknown. The pilot was sent an accident reporting form but did not return it, resulting in a lack of reported details about the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Mar 1985 Piper PA-28RT-201T accident near Matagorda Is., TX?

A pilot executed a VFR go-around on final approach to avoid livestock on the runway, then experienced engine power loss. The aircraft made a forced landing on a beach, flipped inverted, and came to rest in water. The reason for the engine failure is unknown.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Mar 1985 involved a Piper PA-28RT-201T, registration N3562X, at Matagorda Is., TX.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X35936. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.