Casualties unknown

Gusty Wind Landing Attempt Results in Tail Strike and Beehive Collision (N47804)

Dodgeville, WI, US

On August 13, 1988, a Piper PA-28R-201 (registration N47804) operated by Wisconsin Aviation, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Dodgeville, WI. 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

During a gusty wind landing, the pilot lost directional control, veered left, and experienced a tail strike. An abort attempt failed due to ground effect, leading to a grass landing and right-wing collision with a beehive.

Incident Overview

During an attempted landing in gusty wind conditions, the pilot failed to maintain directional control of the aircraft. The aircraft was blown to the left side of the runway, and a tail strike occurred during the process.

Abort Attempt and Ground Effect

Realizing the situation, the pilot attempted to abort the landing. However, the aircraft was unable to climb out of ground effect, preventing a successful go-around.

Final Landing and Impact

The aircraft subsequently landed on the grassy area to the left of the runway. During the landing roll, the right wing struck a beehive, causing contact with the object.

Summary of Events

The event involved a loss of directional control due to gusty wind, a tail strike, an aborted landing hindered by ground effect, and a collision with a beehive on the grass alongside the runway.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Aug 1988 Piper PA-28R-201 accident near Dodgeville, WI?

During a gusty wind landing, the pilot lost directional control, veered left, and experienced a tail strike. An abort attempt failed due to ground effect, leading to a grass landing and right-wing collision with a beehive.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Aug 1988 involved a Piper PA-28R-201, registration N47804, operated by Wisconsin Aviation, Inc., at Dodgeville, WI.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X26511. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.