On December 14, 1985, a Piper PA-34-200T (registration N3885F) was involved in an aviation accident near Glendale, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to stop the aircraft on the available runway length, resulting in an overrun. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After a local flight, the pilot was unable to stop on a 2400-foot runway, skidding for 1000 feet before colliding with barricades and a fence. No mechanical failures were reported.
What happened
Following the completion of a local flight, the pilot returned to their home base airport and initiated landing procedures on a runway measuring 2400 feet in length. Upon touchdown, the pilot reported an inability to bring the aircraft to a halt within the available pavement. A witness observed the aircraft skidding along the runway surface for approximately 1000 feet before it overran the end of the paved area. The aircraft subsequently collided with barricades and a fence located beyond the runway threshold.
The investigation
Examination of the event revealed no evidence of mechanical failures or malfunctions with the aircraft that would have contributed to the accident. The inability to stop was attributed to operational factors rather than equipment failure.
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to stop the aircraft on the available runway length, resulting in an overrun.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 14 Dec 1985 Piper PA-34-200T accident near Glendale, AZ?
After a local flight, the pilot was unable to stop on a 2400-foot runway, skidding for 1000 feet before colliding with barricades and a fence. No mechanical failures were reported.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Dec 1985 involved a Piper PA-34-200T, registration N3885F, at Glendale, AZ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inability to stop the aircraft on the available runway length, resulting in an overrun.
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