Casualties unknown

Piper PA28-236 Involved in Low-Flying Incident During NDB Approach (N2829D)

Thomasville, PA, US

On July 17, 1989, a Piper PA-28-236 (registration N2829D) operated by Roy Brotherhood/k. Mitzel was involved in an aviation accident near Thomasville, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO FLY THE PUBLISHED APPROACH PROCEDURE, WHICH RESULTED IN CONTROLLED FLIGHT INTO THE TERRAIN. 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 Piper PA28-236, cleared for an NDB approach, was observed flying low and off course in poor visibility due to fog and drizzle, before turning away from the airport.

Incident Overview

A Piper PA28-236 aircraft was cleared for a Non-Directional Beacon (NDB) approach, after which radar service was terminated. Multiple witnesses observed the aircraft flying at a very low altitude approximately 1 mile west of the published inbound approach course. At the time, weather conditions were poor, characterized by low visibility due to fog and drizzle.

Witness Observations

According to witnesses, the aircraft was last seen flying at low altitude perpendicular to the inbound course, heading east. It then executed a left turn, proceeding away from the airport. The airport is equipped with runway strobe lights, but no witnesses could recall whether these lights were activated at the time of the incident.

Aircraft and Operational Context

The aircraft involved was a Piper PA28-236. No other details regarding the flight's origin, occupants, or outcome were provided in the source material.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Jul 1989 Piper PA-28-236 accident near Thomasville, PA?

A Piper PA28-236, cleared for an NDB approach, was observed flying low and off course in poor visibility due to fog and drizzle, before turning away from the airport.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Jul 1989 involved a Piper PA-28-236, registration N2829D, operated by Roy Brotherhood/k. Mitzel, at Thomasville, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO FLY THE PUBLISHED APPROACH PROCEDURE, WHICH RESULTED IN CONTROLLED FLIGHT INTO THE TERRAIN.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28946. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.