No fatalities

Aircraft Overruns Runway Following Sudden Tailwind During Takeoff (N8874D)

Lovingston, VA, US

On April 8, 1990, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N8874D) operated by Larry Saunders/thomas Hall was involved in an aviation accident near Lovingston, VA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A sudden tailwind during takeoff that prevented climb, resulting in a runway overrun and descent of an embankment. 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 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported a sudden tailwind during takeoff that prevented climb, causing the aircraft to overrun the runway and descend an embankment. No mechanical issues were noted.

What happened

The pilot reported that conditions prior to takeoff included calm winds. However, during the takeoff roll, a sudden tailwind developed. The pilot lifted off at approximately 65 mph but was unable to achieve a climb. Consequently, the aircraft settled back onto the runway surface. The aircraft overran the 1800-foot-long grass runway and descended an embankment.

The investigation

The pilot reported no mechanical malfunction with the aircraft.

Probable cause

A sudden tailwind during takeoff that prevented climb, resulting in a runway overrun and descent of an embankment.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Apr 1990 Piper PA-22-150 accident near Lovingston, VA?

A pilot reported a sudden tailwind during takeoff that prevented climb, causing the aircraft to overrun the runway and descend an embankment. No mechanical issues were noted.

Were there any fatalities in the 8 Apr 1990 Piper PA-22-150 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Apr 1990 involved a Piper PA-22-150, registration N8874D, operated by Larry Saunders/thomas Hall, at Lovingston, VA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A sudden tailwind during takeoff that prevented climb, resulting in a runway overrun and descent of an embankment.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22864. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.