Casualties unknown

Aircraft Overruns Runway During Go-Around Attempt with Tailwind (N47993)

Bridgeton, NJ, US

On August 31, 1987, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N47993) was involved in an aviation accident near Bridgeton, NJ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to continue the landing with a tailwind and the subsequent failure to maintain directional control during the go-around attempt, resulting in a runway overrun. 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 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft attempted a go-around after pulling left during landing roll with a tailwind, but failed to gain altitude and came to rest among trees beside the runway.

What happened

The pilot initiated a landing while encountering a tailwind component of 8 to 10 knots. During the subsequent landing roll, the aircraft exhibited a tendency to pull toward the left side of the runway. In response to this deviation, the pilot applied additional power in an attempt to execute a go-around maneuver.

Despite the application of power, the aircraft failed to become airborne. Consequently, the pilot reduced engine power, and the aircraft continued its forward motion until it came to a complete stop among the trees and bushes located on the side of the runway.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to continue the landing with a tailwind and the subsequent failure to maintain directional control during the go-around attempt, resulting in a runway overrun.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Aug 1987 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Bridgeton, NJ?

An aircraft attempted a go-around after pulling left during landing roll with a tailwind, but failed to gain altitude and came to rest among trees beside the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Aug 1987 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N47993, at Bridgeton, NJ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to continue the landing with a tailwind and the subsequent failure to maintain directional control during the go-around attempt, resulting in a runway overrun.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31919. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.