Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Overruns Runway During Solo Cross-Country Landing (N3573X)

Auburn, CA, US

On June 21, 1991, a Piper PA 28-161 (registration N3573X) operated by Petaluma Aeroventure was involved in an aviation accident near Auburn, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S USE OF AN EXCESSIVE AIRSPEED FOR THE FINAL APPROACH, AND THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO INITIATE A GO AROUND WHEN IT BECAME APPARENT THAT THE AIRCRAFT WOULD LAND LONG ON THE RUNWAY. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During her third solo cross-country flight, a student pilot attempted landing at Auburn with excessive speed, touched down long, and collided with obstacles after a failed go-around.

Incident Overview

A student pilot on her third solo cross-country flight experienced a runway overrun during a landing attempt at Auburn. The pilot stated in a telephone interview that the approach angle seemed normal, but her speed was too high. The aircraft touched down approximately one-third of the way down the 3,100-foot-long runway. Immediately after touchdown, the pilot realized insufficient runway remained to stop the aircraft.

Go-Around Attempt

The pilot applied power to initiate a go-around. However, the aircraft did not become airborne and subsequently collided with ground obstructions off the departure end of the runway.

Aircraft and Injuries

The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, or any injuries. No further details are provided.

All Piper PA-28 Cherokee accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Jun 1991 Piper PA 28-161 accident near Auburn, CA?

During her third solo cross-country flight, a student pilot attempted landing at Auburn with excessive speed, touched down long, and collided with obstacles after a failed go-around.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Jun 1991 involved a Piper PA 28-161, registration N3573X, operated by Petaluma Aeroventure, at Auburn, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S USE OF AN EXCESSIVE AIRSPEED FOR THE FINAL APPROACH, AND THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO INITIATE A GO AROUND WHEN IT BECAME APPARENT THAT THE AIRCRAFT WOULD LAND LONG ON THE RUNWAY. A FACTOR IN THE ACCIDENT WAS THE LIMITED TOTAL EXPERIENCE OF THE STUDENT PILOT.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X17318. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.