No fatalities

Piper PA-28-140 Strikes Power Lines During Approach After Door Unlocks (N5803U)

Sussex, NJ, US

On August 11, 1986, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N5803U) was involved in an aviation accident near Sussex, NJ. No fatalities were reported. 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-28-140 struck telephone lines and a pole during approach after the main cabin door unlocked at the top; pilot and passenger sustained minor injuries, aircraft substantial damage.

Takeoff and Door Issue

A Piper PA-28-140 had just taken off when the main cabin door unlocked at the top. The pilot returned for a landing but had to execute a go-around due to traffic. The aircraft was on final for its second approach with the top of the main cabin door still unlocked.

Descent and Impact

While passing a hill, the aircraft started to sink, and full power would not stop the descent. The aircraft struck telephone lines and a pole, shearing off the right wing prior to hitting the ground. The pilot and passenger received minor injuries, while the aircraft received substantial damage.

Post-Impact Examination

The aircraft propeller tips were bent forward, and the leading edge of the propeller had severe leading edge damage and chordwise scrapes. The engine was examined, and no defects or malfunction could be found.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Aug 1986 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Sussex, NJ?

A Piper PA-28-140 struck telephone lines and a pole during approach after the main cabin door unlocked at the top; pilot and passenger sustained minor injuries, aircraft substantial damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 11 Aug 1986 Piper PA-28-140 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Aug 1986 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N5803U, at Sussex, NJ.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X34603. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.