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Three-Point Landing Leads to Runway Excursion and Wing Strike (N5972H)

Red Hook, NY, US

On September 9, 1990, a Piper PA-16 (registration N5972H) operated by Daniel L. Hickey was involved in an aviation accident near Red Hook, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S LOSS OF DIRECTIONAL CONTROL AND DEPARTURE OFF THE SIDE OF THE RUNWAY DURING THE LANDING ROLL, RESULTING IN A COLLISION WITH A TREE. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE PILOT'S LACK OF EXPEREINCE IN THE AIRCRAFT. 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 three-point landing on Runway 19, the pilot overcorrected for a weathervane effect, causing the aircraft to leave the pavement. While turning to avoid runway lights, the left wing struck a tree, resulting in a ground loop.

The Incident

A three-point landing was in progress on Runway 19. The pilot reported experiencing a weathervane effect that pulled the aircraft to the right. In response, the pilot applied a left correction, but the input was excessive, causing the aircraft to depart the paved surface onto the adjacent grass. To avoid striking runway lights, the pilot initiated a left turn. During this maneuver, the left wing tip made contact with a tree, and the aircraft subsequently spun to the left.

Pilot Account

The pilot stated, "I had a little weather vane to the right, I corrected to the left but with a little too much causing me to leave the pavement onto the grass." The pilot further commented, "More time by PIC would have prevented accident low time by PIC," attributing the occurrence to limited pilot-in-command experience.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Sept 1990 Piper PA-16 accident near Red Hook, NY?

During a three-point landing on Runway 19, the pilot overcorrected for a weathervane effect, causing the aircraft to leave the pavement. While turning to avoid runway lights, the left wing struck a tree, resulting in a ground loop.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Sept 1990 involved a Piper PA-16, registration N5972H, operated by Daniel L. Hickey, at Red Hook, NY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S LOSS OF DIRECTIONAL CONTROL AND DEPARTURE OFF THE SIDE OF THE RUNWAY DURING THE LANDING ROLL, RESULTING IN A COLLISION WITH A TREE. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE PILOT'S LACK OF EXPEREINCE IN THE AIRCRAFT.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24359. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.