No fatalities

Pilot Lands Short, Collides with Runway Lip During Go-Around Attempt (N66887)

Houston, TX, US

On June 16, 1985, a Piper PA-31-350 (registration N66887) was involved in an aviation accident near Houston, TX. No fatalities were reported. 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

During a go-around, a pilot left flaps and gear down, unable to climb, and landed short, hitting a 1-2 ft runway lip, shearing one landing gear and collapsing another. No injuries.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported seeing another aircraft ahead and below on final approach to the runway. Maneuvering to establish proper interval, the pilot then decided to execute a go-around. Full throttle was applied, but the flaps and landing gear remained extended. Unable to climb, the pilot chose to land behind the other aircraft.

Collision and Damage

During the landing, the aircraft touched down short of the runway. It struck a 1-2 foot high lip at the runway edge. The impact sheared one landing gear strut and collapsed another. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.

Pilot Outcome

The pilot escaped without injury.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Jun 1985 Piper PA-31-350 accident near Houston, TX?

During a go-around, a pilot left flaps and gear down, unable to climb, and landed short, hitting a 1-2 ft runway lip, shearing one landing gear and collapsing another. No injuries.

Were there any fatalities in the 16 Jun 1985 Piper PA-31-350 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Jun 1985 involved a Piper PA-31-350, registration N66887, at Houston, TX.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36793. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.