Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Fence During Go-Around at Unlighted Airstrip (N7108B)

Belleville, IN, US

On September 20, 1987, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N7108B) operated by James R. Draper was involved in an aviation accident near Belleville, IN. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft returning from a pleasure flight struck a fence during a go-around attempt at an unlighted private airstrip, flipping onto its back.

Incident Overview

An aircraft was returning to an unlighted private airstrip after a local pleasure flight. According to the pilot, the sun had set but the sky was still illuminated. The pilot stated that he was able to set up an approach, but when established on final approach he lost sight of the runway. He executed a low go-around to try to spot the runway, then elected to attempt a second approach. Again, the pilot reportedly lost sight of the runway on final approach.

Go-Around and Collision

The pilot decided to perform another go-around and fly to a nearby airport with lights. While starting the second go-around attempt, the aircraft struck a fence, flipping it over onto its back. No further details about the aircraft, occupants, or injuries were provided in the source.

Circumstances

The incident occurred at an unlighted private airstrip. The pilot's statements indicate that visibility of the runway was lost on final approach during both landing attempts. The exact time of day and weather conditions were not specified beyond the sun having set but the sky still illuminated.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32040. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.