Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Strong Gust and Collision with Tree After Go-Around (N210JA)

Orlando, FL, US

On May 17, 1985, a Grumman American AA-5A (registration N210JA) was involved in an aviation accident near Orlando, FL. 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 that after landing on a runway with tape across it, he initiated a go-around, but the aircraft encountered a strong gust, collided with a tree, and crashed.

Accident Overview

A pilot reported that during an approach to land, he observed tape across the runway. He remained airborne until the aircraft passed over the taped area, then landed on the runway. The pilot described the runway as rough and bumpy. The aircraft was still moving fast halfway down the runway, so the pilot elected to go around. As the aircraft took off, it cleared the end of the runway but reportedly got hit by a strong gust from the side and subsequently collided with a tree and crashed.

Sequence of Events

The pilot arrived and was on an approach to land when he noted tape across the runway. He decided to remain airborne until the aircraft passed over the taped-off area and then landed. After landing, he found the runway surface rough and bumpy. The aircraft was still moving fast when it was halfway down the runway, prompting the pilot to go around. During the takeoff, the aircraft cleared the end of the runway, but a strong gust from the side struck the aircraft, causing it to collide with a tree and crash.

Weather

About 10 miles west, the 1250 EDT Orlando wind was reported from 260 degrees at 17 knots, gusting to 26 knots. This wind information is from a source at the stated time and location.

No further details were provided regarding the aircraft type, registration, number of occupants, injuries, or the extent of damage. The pilot's report is the primary source of information for this event.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 May 1985 Grumman American AA-5A accident near Orlando, FL?

A pilot reported that after landing on a runway with tape across it, he initiated a go-around, but the aircraft encountered a strong gust, collided with a tree, and crashed.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 May 1985 involved a Grumman American AA-5A, registration N210JA, at Orlando, FL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36533. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.