Casualties unknown

Aircraft Noses Over After Runway Excursion During Landing (N6003D)

Hillsville, VA, US

On October 2, 1986, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N6003D) was involved in an aviation accident near Hillsville, VA. 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

After touching down, the pilot kept the nose wheel off the runway for about 200 feet. The aircraft then veered left, departed the runway, and nosed over on adjacent grass. Examination showed the nose gear bent 30 degrees left; brakes and wheel rotation were normal.

Landing and Runway Excursion

Following touchdown on the runway, the pilot held the control wheel back, keeping the nose wheel off the ground for approximately 200 feet of travel. According to the pilot, the aircraft then veered to the left, and he was unable to correct the direction using the rudder pedals. The aircraft departed the side of the runway and came to rest after nosing over on an adjacent grass area.

Examination Findings

An examination of the aircraft revealed that the nose landing gear was bent approximately 30 degrees to the left. The brakes were tested and found to operate satisfactorily, and the wheels rotated freely without obstruction.

Conclusion

The source document provides no stated probable cause for the event.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X34920. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.