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Casualties unknown

Pilot Lands on Non-Existent Runway at Joliet Airport, Aircraft Overturns (N6320A)

Joliet, IL, US

On September 27, 1987, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N6320A) was involved in an aviation accident near Joliet, IL. 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 perceived runway at Joliet Park District Airport, but no Runway 33 exists there. After a hard braking, the aircraft swerved left and flipped over.

Incident Overview

A pilot landed an aircraft on what he believed was a runway at Joliet Park District Airport. According to the pilot's statement, during the short final approach the aircraft floated before touching down, leaving insufficient room to execute a go-around. After touchdown, the pilot applied hard braking, causing the aircraft to swerve left. The nose gear subsequently collapsed, and the aircraft overturned.

Runway Confusion

The pilot identified the landing strip as Runway 33. However, Joliet Park District Airport does not have a Runway 33. The airport's runway configuration does not include that designation.

Sequence of Events

  • The pilot set up for a landing on what he thought was a runway.
  • On short final, the aircraft experienced floating prior to touchdown.
  • The pilot decided against a go-around due to the perceived lack of remaining runway.
  • After landing, the pilot braked aggressively.
  • The aircraft veered left, the nose gear failed, and the airplane turned over onto its back.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Sept 1987 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Joliet, IL?

A pilot landed on a perceived runway at Joliet Park District Airport, but no Runway 33 exists there. After a hard braking, the aircraft swerved left and flipped over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Sept 1987 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N6320A, at Joliet, IL.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32047. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.