Casualties unknown

Tree Collision During Go-Around After Bounced Landing (N9400D)

China Grove, NC, US

On September 24, 1989, a Piper PA-22-160 (registration N9400D) was involved in an aviation accident near China Grove, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: PILOT'S LOSS OF CONTROL DURING THE FINAL APPROACH IN THAT HE FAILED TO ESTABLISH A PROPER GLIDEPATH. THE AIRPLANE LANDED SHORT OF THE RUNWAY. 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 airplane experienced a wind shift on final approach, dropped rapidly, bounced short of the runway, and during the go-around veered left into trees.

Accident Overview

During an attempted landing, the airplane encountered a wind shift on final approach as it crossed over an open field after passing over trees. The pilot reported that the airplane then dropped rapidly, struck the ground a few feet short of the runway, and bounced back into the air.

Go-Around Attempt

Full power was applied and the pilot attempted a go-around. During the initial climb, the airplane veered to the left and collided with trees adjacent to the runway.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that the airplane encountered a 'wind shift' during final approach, which caused the sudden descent. After the bounce, the go-around was initiated but the airplane veered left into the trees.

Conclusion

The collision with trees occurred during the initial climb following an aborted landing, after the airplane bounced short of the runway during the approach.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29304. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.