Casualties unknown

Aircraft Crashes After Attempted Highway Landing (N8153C)

Robbinsville, NC, US

On June 30, 1986, a Piper PA-28RT-201 (registration N8153C) was involved in an aviation accident near Robbinsville, NC. 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

An aircraft flying from Troy, MI to Knoxville, TN, continued without refueling. Over an hour later, it attempted a highway landing, struck a tree, and impacted the ground inverted.

Flight Details

The aircraft departed Troy, Michigan, and landed in Knoxville, Tennessee. According to the pilot's flight plan, the intended destination was Andrews, North Carolina, with an estimated time en route from Knoxville to Andrews of approximately 30 minutes. However, the aircraft was not refueled during the stop in Knoxville.

Events Leading to the Accident

After departing Knoxville, the aircraft did not arrive at its planned destination. About 1 hour and 24 minutes after departure, a witness observed the aircraft as the pilot was attempting to land on a highway. The aircraft then pulled up, and its wings began to rock. It subsequently struck a tree and impacted the ground in an inverted position.

Investigation Status

The investigation is ongoing. No further details have been released regarding the aircraft type, registration, or occupants.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Jun 1986 Piper PA-28RT-201 accident near Robbinsville, NC?

An aircraft flying from Troy, MI to Knoxville, TN, continued without refueling. Over an hour later, it attempted a highway landing, struck a tree, and impacted the ground inverted.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Jun 1986 involved a Piper PA-28RT-201, registration N8153C, at Robbinsville, NC.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33780. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.