Casualties unknown

Pilot Overflies, Makes Low Pass Before Colliding with Trees and Power Lines on Landing Attempt (N31683)

Brentwood, NH, US

On July 12, 1992, a Piper PA28-161 (registration N31683) operated by Apollo Flying Club was involved in an aviation accident near Brentwood, NH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A DELAY BY THE PILOT IN ABORTING THE LANDING WHICH RESULTED IN FAILURE TO CLEAR THE OBSTACLES. 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

A pilot landing at a turf strip for the first time overflew, made a low pass, then touched down long and applied full power near the end, striking trees and power lines.

Accident Sequence

The pilot was landing at the airstrip for the first time. According to a witness, the pilot overflew the airstrip at about 800 feet, followed by a low pass. On the second attempt, the pilot touched down 300 feet beyond the threshold of the 1,600-foot turf strip. The airplane remained on the ground with the power off until it was about 600 feet from the end of the runway, at which point the witness heard full power being applied.

Collision with Trees and Power Lines

The witness stated that the airplane became airborne again and made a left turn towards an opening in the trees. However, the right wing struck a tree approximately 20 feet up, near the top. The landing gear then severed the top three wires of a power line. Following that, the left wing struck a larger tree, rotating the airplane 180 degrees. The airplane pitched over and fell to the ground.

The pilot has no recollection of the accident due to his injuries.

All Piper PA-28 Cherokee accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Jul 1992 Piper PA28-161 accident near Brentwood, NH?

A pilot landing at a turf strip for the first time overflew, made a low pass, then touched down long and applied full power near the end, striking trees and power lines.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Jul 1992 involved a Piper PA28-161, registration N31683, operated by Apollo Flying Club, at Brentwood, NH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A DELAY BY THE PILOT IN ABORTING THE LANDING WHICH RESULTED IN FAILURE TO CLEAR THE OBSTACLES.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15068. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.