Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Loss of Visual Reference on Approach Leading to Collision with Trees (N11HK)

Skowhegan, ME, US

On August 25, 1994, a Piper PA -28-181 (registration N11HK) operated by Paul D Spiro was involved in an aviation accident near Skowhegan, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to do a go around which resulted in an inflight collision with trees during a delayed aborted landing to avoid a runway overrun. 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 overflew the destination airport, selected a fog-free runway, then lost sight of the runway environment on final approach. After a go-around and subsequent landing attempt, the airplane struck trees during a second go-around and fell to the ground.

Weather Briefing and Arrival

The pilot, flying for Volunteer Airlife, reported receiving a weather briefing before departure. Upon arrival at the destination airport, the pilot overflew the field and selected Runway 3 for landing. According to the pilot, fog was present in some areas, but Runway 3 was clear of fog.

Final Approach

On final approach to Runway 3, as the airplane passed over the approach end at an estimated altitude of 30 to 50 feet above the runway, the pilot reported losing sight of the runway environment. The pilot then increased engine power to execute a go-around. However, as the go-around began, the runway came back into view, leading the pilot to decide to continue with the landing.

Landing and Go-Around

During the landing roll, the pilot realized that insufficient runway remained to complete the landing safely and attempted a second go-around. During the climb-out, at approximately 20 feet above ground level, the airplane struck trees at the departure end of the runway and subsequently fell to the ground.

Mechanical Condition

The pilot reported that there was no mechanical malfunction with the airplane.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Aug 1994 Piper PA -28-181 accident near Skowhegan, ME?

A pilot overflew the destination airport, selected a fog-free runway, then lost sight of the runway environment on final approach. After a go-around and subsequent landing attempt, the airplane struck trees during a second go-around and fell to the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Aug 1994 involved a Piper PA -28-181, registration N11HK, operated by Paul D Spiro, at Skowhegan, ME.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to do a go around which resulted in an inflight collision with trees during a delayed aborted landing to avoid a runway overrun.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01971. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.