Casualties unknown

Pilot veers right on landing at wrong airport (N8305Y)

Olathe, KS, US

On July 11, 1986, a Piper PA-32-301T (registration N8305Y) operated by K. C.aviation Cntr. was involved in an aviation accident near Olathe, KS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain proper course, resulting in a landing at the wrong airport and a subsequent veer off the runway upon arrival at the correct destination. 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

A pilot mistakenly landed at an airport eight miles west of the intended destination, then diverted to the correct field where a sharp right veer occurred during touchdown in crosswind conditions.

What happened

The pilot in command (PIC) initially attempted to land at an airfield located approximately eight miles west of his planned destination. Upon realizing the navigational error, the pilot corrected the course and diverted to the intended airport.

Upon arrival at the correct location, the aircraft touched down on Runway 17. During the landing roll, the aircraft veered sharply to the right. At the time of the incident, there was a right crosswind present, which may have influenced the aircraft's ground track.

The investigation

A review of the event confirmed that there was no pre-landing mechanical failure of the aircraft. The primary factor identified was the pilot's initial decision to land at the incorrect airfield.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain proper course, resulting in a landing at the wrong airport and a subsequent veer off the runway upon arrival at the correct destination.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Jul 1986 Piper PA-32-301T accident near Olathe, KS?

A pilot mistakenly landed at an airport eight miles west of the intended destination, then diverted to the correct field where a sharp right veer occurred during touchdown in crosswind conditions.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Jul 1986 involved a Piper PA-32-301T, registration N8305Y, operated by K. C.aviation Cntr., at Olathe, KS.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain proper course, resulting in a landing at the wrong airport and a subsequent veer off the runway upon arrival at the correct destination.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X34272. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.