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Piper PA-38-112 Veers Off Runway After Downwind Landing (N25954)

Fallbrook, CA, US

On April 30, 1986, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N25954) was involved in an aviation accident near Fallbrook, CA. 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 Piper PA-38-112 veered off Runway 36 after the pilot misinterpreted the wind indicator and landed downwind. No mechanical failures were reported. A witness observed touchdown approximately two-thirds down the 2,160-ft runway.

Accident Details

A Piper PA-38-112 aircraft veered off Runway 36 during landing. The weather reporting station located 6 nautical miles southeast of the airport reported winds from 180 degrees at 7 knots during the time of the accident. Runway 36 has a length of 2,160 feet.

Pilot Account

The pilot stated that he misinterpreted the airport wind indicator and subsequently landed downwind. After touchdown, he veered to the right to avoid overrunning the runway. The pilot also indicated that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions prior to the accident.

Witness Statement

A witness employed at a fixed-base operator (FBO) located at the airport observed the aircraft touch down approximately two-thirds of the distance down the runway.

Aircraft Information

According to the Piper Tomahawk (PA-38-112) Information Manual published by Piper Aircraft Corporation, the minimum landing ground roll for the reported weather condition is at least 1,000 feet.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Apr 1986 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Fallbrook, CA?

A Piper PA-38-112 veered off Runway 36 after the pilot misinterpreted the wind indicator and landed downwind. No mechanical failures were reported. A witness observed touchdown approximately two-thirds down the 2,160-ft runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Apr 1986 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N25954, at Fallbrook, CA.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33335. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.