Casualties unknown

Student Pilot and Instructor Killed in Runway Excursion (N5066Z)

EL Monte, CA, US

On September 14, 1986, a Piper PA-22-108 (registration N5066Z) was involved in an aviation accident near EL Monte, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing approach, which resulted in a runway excursion and collision with terrain/structures. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A training aircraft rolled right near the runway threshold, impacting storage buildings shortly after a business jet landed on the same strip.

What happened

The incident occurred as a training flight approached the runway for landing. As the student pilot and his instructor neared the runway threshold, the aircraft began to roll to the right. Recognizing the deviation, the instructor took control of the aircraft in an attempt to correct the attitude.

Despite the intervention, the aircraft continued its uncommanded right turn. It departed the paved surface and impacted a group of storage buildings located approximately 300 feet to the right of the runway centerline. The collision resulted in the destruction of the aircraft. Notably, a business jet had landed on the same runway just three minutes and 40 seconds prior to this accident.

Findings

The primary factor leading to the accident was the loss of directional control during the final approach phase. The aircraft's deviation to the right was not arrested before impact with ground structures. The proximity of the business jet landing suggests high traffic activity in the immediate vicinity, though no direct interaction between the two aircraft was reported.

Safety message

This event highlights the critical importance of maintaining precise control during the final stages of flight. Pilots must remain vigilant for any unexpected changes in aircraft attitude or performance, particularly when operating near airport boundaries and obstacles.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing approach, which resulted in a runway excursion and collision with terrain/structures.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X34814. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.