Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Microburst Encounter During Approach to Home Strip (N56971)

San Antonio, TX, US

On May 15, 1994, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration N56971) was involved in an aviation accident near San Antonio, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Encounter with a microburst. 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 an ILS approach in turbulent conditions with thunderstorms, a pilot and passenger lost awareness after setting up for landing; the next recollection was being on the ground stopped, attributed to a microburst.

Flight Details

After completing an ILS approach and breaking out of clouds, the pilot terminated the instrument approach and proceeded to his home base airstrip. The pilot stated that he encountered turbulence during the approach and while en route to the strip, to the point that he had difficulty maintaining altitude. Thunderstorms were present throughout the area.

Events Leading to Landing

The pilot and the passenger last recalled being set up on a right downwind for runway 16 with the landing gear extended. The pilot stated that the next thing he remembered was being on the ground and stopped. He believed that he encountered a microburst that forced the airplane down.

Conditions

The flight encountered widespread thunderstorm activity and significant turbulence. The pilot reported that maintaining altitude became challenging due to the turbulence. No further details about the aircraft, occupants, or outcome were provided.

Probable cause

Encounter with a microburst

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 May 1994 Piper PA-28R-200 accident near San Antonio, TX?

During an ILS approach in turbulent conditions with thunderstorms, a pilot and passenger lost awareness after setting up for landing; the next recollection was being on the ground stopped, attributed to a microburst.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 May 1994 involved a Piper PA-28R-200, registration N56971, at San Antonio, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Encounter with a microburst

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01285. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.