Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Approach Lights During Second Approach Attempt in Icing Conditions (N1028Q)

Johnstown, PA, US

On November 23, 1989, a Piper PA-32R-300 (registration N1028Q) operated by A & G Air OF N.j., Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Johnstown, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN PROPER AIRSPEED AND ALTITUDE ON AN ILS FINAL APPROACH, WHICH ALLOWED THE AIRCRAFT TO DESCEND BELOW THE GLIDE PATH AND COLLIDE WITH APPROACH LIGHTING. 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 an ILS approach in icing conditions, the pilot encountered turbulence and lost speed before crashing into approach lights 600 feet short of the runway. Post-accident examination revealed ice on the wings.

Event Description

During an arrival, the pilot was advised that the weather included an overcast ceiling at 300 feet, visibility of 3 miles with freezing rain, light drizzle, and light snow. The pilot initiated an instrument landing system (ILS) approach to runway 33. While on the approach, he encountered turbulence and elected to perform a missed approach. After flying back for a second attempt, the pilot again encountered turbulence and noticed the aircraft was losing speed. He stated that he applied full power, which was the last thing he could remember. The aircraft crashed when it struck approach lights approximately 600 feet short of the runway.

Post-Accident Examination

The following day, when the aircraft was examined, airframe ice was still attached to the leading edge and lower surface of the wings. No preimpact part failure or malfunction of the aircraft was found.

Weather Briefing

During a weather briefing before the flight, the pilot had been given advisories for snow and light to moderate rime icing conditions. The aircraft was not equipped for flight in known icing conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Nov 1989 Piper PA-32R-300 accident near Johnstown, PA?

During an ILS approach in icing conditions, the pilot encountered turbulence and lost speed before crashing into approach lights 600 feet short of the runway. Post-accident examination revealed ice on the wings.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Nov 1989 involved a Piper PA-32R-300, registration N1028Q, operated by A & G Air OF N.j., Inc., at Johnstown, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN PROPER AIRSPEED AND ALTITUDE ON AN ILS FINAL APPROACH, WHICH ALLOWED THE AIRCRAFT TO DESCEND BELOW THE GLIDE PATH AND COLLIDE WITH APPROACH LIGHTING. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: DARKNESS, ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITIONS, THE PILOT'S DECISION TO FLY IN KNOWN ADVERSE WEATHER…

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29872. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.