Casualties unknown

Pilot Unable to Stop on Runway After Landing in Haze, Sustains Head Injury (N36509)

Mattituck, NY, US

On July 13, 1987, a Piper PA-28-160 (registration N36509) operated by Frank J. Demaria was involved in an aviation accident near Mattituck, NY. 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 landed on a 2,200-ft runway in haze, touched down 500 ft from the end, and could not stop due to trees preventing a go-around. He received a head injury and later could not recall events after touchdown.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during arrival at a destination with a 2,200-foot runway, he attempted to contact the UNICOM frequency but was unable to establish communication. He circled the runway but could not see the windsock due to reduced visibility from haze. The pilot elected to land on Runway 19.

Landing and Runway Excursion

The aircraft touched down approximately 500 feet from the departure end of the runway. The pilot noted trees at the departure end and chose not to attempt a go-around because of those obstructions. However, he was unable to stop the aircraft on the remaining runway surface. After departing the runway, the pilot received a head injury.

Pilot Condition

Following the head injury, the pilot could not remember what happened after touchdown. He later reported that the wind was from the northeast at 10 knots at the time of the incident.

Weather and Visibility

Visibility was reduced due to haze, which prevented the pilot from seeing the windsock while circling the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Jul 1987 Piper PA-28-160 accident near Mattituck, NY?

A pilot landed on a 2,200-ft runway in haze, touched down 500 ft from the end, and could not stop due to trees preventing a go-around. He received a head injury and later could not recall events after touchdown.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Jul 1987 involved a Piper PA-28-160, registration N36509, operated by Frank J. Demaria, at Mattituck, NY.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31640. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.