What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1986-07-23 involved a Piper PA-34-200T, registration N2952D, at Mobile, AL.

Thunderstorm Downdraft Leads to Runway Collision During ILS Approach (N2952D)

On July 23, 1986, a Piper PA-34-200T (registration N2952D) was involved in an aviation accident near Mobile, AL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

A pilot received a weather briefing forecasting scattered thunderstorms. On arrival, a thunderstorm was over the airport, and while executing an ILS approach, a strong downdraft caused collision with the runway.

Weather Briefing and Approach

The pilot obtained a weather briefing before departure, which predicted widely scattered thunderstorms along the route. Upon arrival at the destination, a thunderstorm was positioned directly over the airport.

The Approach

The pilot conducted an Instrument Landing System (ILS) approach to runway 14. A preceding DC-9 aircraft executed a missed approach after the control tower reported wind shear conditions.

Observations During Approach

The accident pilot reported seeing intense rain and lightning ahead and acknowledged hearing the tower's report of wind shear. Despite these conditions, the approach was continued.

Encounter with Downdraft

During the final approach, the aircraft encountered a strong downdraft. This vertical wind shear resulted in a loss of controlled flight path, leading to a collision with the runway.

1986-07-23: Piper PA-34-200T (N2952D) — Mobile, AL