Casualties unknown

Piper Seneca Encounters Wake Turbulence on Final Approach, Lands Adjacent to Runway (N41531)

Miami, FL, US

On March 4, 1987, a Piper PA-34-200 (registration N41531) was involved in an aviation accident near Miami, FL. 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 pilot on final approach encountered wake turbulence from a departing 737, rolling 60-70 degrees right and nose down. After recovery, the pilot landed on grass to the right of the runway.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported an encounter with wake turbulence during the landing phase of a flight. The pilot stated that while on final approach and cleared to land long, a Boeing 737 was cleared for an immediate takeoff. The pilot was instructed to make S-turns or other maneuvers as necessary to maintain separation.

Encounter and Recovery

As the pilot slowed for landing and descended to an altitude of approximately 10 to 20 feet above the runway, the aircraft encountered wake turbulence from the departing 737. The turbulence caused the aircraft to roll 60 to 70 degrees to the right and nose down. The pilot initiated recovery procedures and successfully returned the aircraft to a level attitude.

Landing

Following the recovery, the pilot landed the aircraft on the grass to the right of the designated runway. According to radar plot data, adequate spacing existed between the departing 737 and the Piper Seneca at the time of the incident.

Aircraft Information

The aircraft involved was a Piper Seneca. No specific registration or additional details were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Mar 1987 Piper PA-34-200 accident near Miami, FL?

A pilot on final approach encountered wake turbulence from a departing 737, rolling 60-70 degrees right and nose down. After recovery, the pilot landed on grass to the right of the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Mar 1987 involved a Piper PA-34-200, registration N41531, at Miami, FL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30492. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.