Runway Overrun Due to Tailwind at Destination Airport

Casualties unknown • Gasquet, CA, US

A pilot experienced a runway overrun after landing on Runway 24, driven by an unexpected tailwind and a long touchdown.

What happened

Prior to arrival, the pilot received weather information indicating northwest winds for an airport near the destination. Based on this information, the pilot arrived at the destination airport with a mental preparation for landing on Runway 24. This decision was influenced by the observation that the windsock at the approach end of the runway appeared limp.

During the landing sequence, the aircraft experienced a long touchdown on the runway. The pilot was unable to bring the airplane to a stop before the end of the runway. Consequently, the aircraft overran the runway, colliding with a fence, a tree, and rough terrain.

At the departure end of the runway, the windsock indicated that a 10 knot tailwind was present, contradicting the pilot's initial assessment of the wind conditions.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to use Runway 24 based on an incorrect perception of wind conditions, resulting in a landing with a 10-knot tailwind and a long touchdown.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1992-09-25 Piper PA-32-300 accident near Gasquet, CA?

A pilot experienced a runway overrun after landing on Runway 24, driven by an unexpected tailwind and a long touchdown.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1992-09-25 involved a Piper PA-32-300, registration N3410M, operated by Howard Toner, at Gasquet, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to use Runway 24 based on an incorrect perception of wind conditions, resulting in a landing with a 10-knot tailwind and a long touchdown.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15735. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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