Casualties unknown

Wake Turbulence Encounter During Parallel Runway Approach (N3423F)

Boise, ID, US

On March 31, 1986, a Cessna T210C (registration N3423F) operated by Jon Dale Burke was involved in an aviation accident near Boise, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate separation from the preceding aircraft while operating on parallel runways, resulting in a wake turbulence encounter. 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 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft encountered wake turbulence from a preceding transport while landing on a parallel runway, resulting in a hard touchdown before a successful go-around.

What happened

The incident occurred during an approach to land on a parallel runway configuration. As the pilot was attempting to complete the landing, the aircraft encountered significant wake turbulence generated by a larger transport aircraft that had previously landed. The wind conditions at the time favored the drift of these vortices toward the active runway, increasing the exposure risk.

Upon entering the turbulent air mass, the aircraft experienced an uncommanded roll. This loss of control authority resulted in the aircraft striking the ground with excessive force. Despite the hard impact, the pilot retained sufficient energy and control to execute a go-around maneuver. The subsequent landing was completed without further incident.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate separation from the preceding aircraft while operating on parallel runways, resulting in a wake turbulence encounter.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Mar 1986 Cessna T210C accident near Boise, ID?

An aircraft encountered wake turbulence from a preceding transport while landing on a parallel runway, resulting in a hard touchdown before a successful go-around.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Mar 1986 involved a Cessna T210C, registration N3423F, operated by Jon Dale Burke, at Boise, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate separation from the preceding aircraft while operating on parallel runways, resulting in a wake turbulence encounter.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33194. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.