Casualties unknown

Aircraft Overshoots Runway and Skids Off Departure End (N3042U)

Toccoa, GA, US

On March 27, 1987, a Piper PA-32-300 (registration N3042U) was involved in an aviation accident near Toccoa, GA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 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

An aircraft overshot Runway 20 and skidded off the departure end, sustaining substantial damage. The pilot cited failure to descend to traffic pattern altitude.

Incident Overview

During a landing attempt, the pilot overshot Runway 20 and the aircraft skidded off the departure end, resulting in substantial damage. The pilot reported that he should have descended to the normal visual traffic pattern altitude before attempting the landing. No aircraft or airport system problems were identified.

Runway Marks

Airport officials observed tire marks on the runway, beginning approximately 1,000 feet from the departure end. The black tire marks continued to the point where the aircraft came to rest.

Pilot Statement

The pilot acknowledged that descending to the standard traffic pattern altitude was necessary prior to landing, indicating that the failure to do so contributed to the overshoot.

All Piper PA-32 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Mar 1987 Piper PA-32-300 accident near Toccoa, GA?

An aircraft overshot Runway 20 and skidded off the departure end, sustaining substantial damage. The pilot cited failure to descend to traffic pattern altitude.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Mar 1987 involved a Piper PA-32-300, registration N3042U, at Toccoa, GA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30379. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.