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Aircraft Lands Long, Strikes Trees After Downwind Landing at Uncontrolled Airport (N5444W)

Michellville, MD, US

On June 17, 1986, a Piper PA-28-160 (registration N5444W) operated by Paul B. Essex was involved in an aviation accident near Michellville, MD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot missed signs of a downwind landing until it was too late. 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 pilot circled an airport to check winds via unicom and windsock, then landed north. The aircraft touched down long on a 2420-foot runway, crossed a highway, and collided with a tree before nosing into a field.

Approach and Landing

The pilot circled the airport, attempting to contact someone on the UNICOM frequency to determine wind conditions. After noting the lighted windsock indicator, the pilot elected to land to the north.

Touchdown and Overrun

The aircraft was observed to land long on the 2420-foot runway, touching down past the midway point. Immediately after touchdown, engine sounds increased. The aircraft then crossed over a highway off the north end of the runway.

Collision with Terrain

The aircraft subsequently collided with the top branches of a tree before nosing down into a field.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that he missed all signs of a downwind landing until it was too late.

Probable cause

The pilot missed signs of a downwind landing until it was too late.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Jun 1986 Piper PA-28-160 accident near Michellville, MD?

A pilot circled an airport to check winds via unicom and windsock, then landed north. The aircraft touched down long on a 2420-foot runway, crossed a highway, and collided with a tree before nosing into a field.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Jun 1986 involved a Piper PA-28-160, registration N5444W, operated by Paul B. Essex, at Michellville, MD.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot missed signs of a downwind landing until it was too late.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33783. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.