Casualties unknown

Non-Pilot Passenger Lands Aircraft After Pilot Incapacitation (N9558J)

Groton, CT, US

On July 27, 1987, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration N9558J) was involved in an aviation accident near Groton, CT. 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 non-pilot rated passenger landed an aircraft with ATC assistance after the pilot suffered an apparent heart attack. The aircraft then veered off the runway and hit two parked aircraft.

Overview

Shortly after the aircraft departed the airport, air traffic control personnel received a distress call from the non-pilot rated passenger. She reported that the pilot, who was her husband, was incapacitated by an apparent heart attack. The passenger stated that she was not qualified to fly the aircraft.

Sequence of Events

With assistance from air traffic control, the passenger was able to bring the aircraft back to the airport and land. As the aircraft rolled out after landing, it drifted off the left side of the runway and collided with two parked aircraft. No further details regarding injuries or damage were provided in the source.

The incident involved an aircraft that had just departed from the airport. The specific aircraft type, registration, and other identifying information were not disclosed. The time of day and weather conditions were not mentioned, nor was any involvement of additional personnel or air traffic control beyond the assistance provided.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Jul 1987 Piper PA-28-180 accident near Groton, CT?

A non-pilot rated passenger landed an aircraft with ATC assistance after the pilot suffered an apparent heart attack. The aircraft then veered off the runway and hit two parked aircraft.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Jul 1987 involved a Piper PA-28-180, registration N9558J, at Groton, CT.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31628. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.