Casualties unknown

Ground Impact Following Encounter with Downdraft and Tailwind (N108DT)

Lyndonville, VT, US

On February 27, 1986, a Stinson 108 (registration N108DT) was involved in an aviation accident near Lyndonville, VT. 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

After a normal run-up, the aircraft encountered a downdraft and tailwind during climb, resulting in a descent and ground impact in snow at the end of the runway.

Incident Overview

The pilot performed a run-up, and all appeared normal before commencing a ground run. Approximately 700 feet down the runway, trim was set for a climb out at around 76 knots indicated airspeed (IAS).

Events During Climb

The pilot reported encountering a bad downdraft. A check of the airspeed indicated it was OK. At 200 feet, a downdraft and tailwind were encountered, and the aircraft continued to descend at a rate of 50–75 feet per minute.

Outcome

The aircraft impacted the ground at the end of the runway in about 3 feet of snow. The pilot's flight time was not reported.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Feb 1986 Stinson 108 accident near Lyndonville, VT?

After a normal run-up, the aircraft encountered a downdraft and tailwind during climb, resulting in a descent and ground impact in snow at the end of the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Feb 1986 involved a Stinson 108, registration N108DT, at Lyndonville, VT.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32938. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.