Casualties unknown

Landing Overrun and Collision with Railroad Embankment (N8389C)

High Point, NC, US

On December 27, 1986, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N8389C) operated by Fredrick Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near High Point, NC. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot landed on a wet turf/gravel runway with a quartering tail wind, touching down 1/3 down the runway at 4-9 knots above recommended speed. Unable to stop, the aircraft was steered left to avoid a fence and struck a railroad embankment.

Accident Summary

The pilot conducted a landing on a wet turf and gravel runway. During the approach, there was a slight quartering tail wind. According to reports, the aircraft touched down approximately one-third of the way along the runway length. The airspeed at touchdown was between 4 and 9 knots higher than the recommended speed for the landing. After touchdown, the pilot was unable to bring the aircraft to a stop within the remaining runway distance. To avoid colliding with a fence located near the departure end of the runway, the pilot steered the aircraft to the left. The aircraft subsequently left the runway and collided with a railroad embankment that was adjacent to the runway.

Examination Findings

An examination of the aircraft's braking system and tires was conducted following the accident. The inspection revealed that both the brakes and tires were in good condition and should have functioned correctly under normal circumstances. No pre-existing mechanical issues were identified that would have contributed to the inability to stop.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Dec 1986 Piper PA-28-181 accident near High Point, NC?

A pilot landed on a wet turf/gravel runway with a quartering tail wind, touching down 1/3 down the runway at 4-9 knots above recommended speed. Unable to stop, the aircraft was steered left to avoid a fence and struck a railroad embankment.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Dec 1986 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N8389C, operated by Fredrick Aviation, at High Point, NC.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X35308. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.