Casualties unknown

Pilot Lands on Dirt Road Due to Passenger Airsickness, Subsequently Experiences Wing Damage and Landing Incident (N9675W)

Arock, OR, US

On August 29, 1995, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N9675W) was involved in an aviation accident near Arock, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL DURING TAKEOFF FROM A DIRT ROAD. 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

A pilot made an unscheduled landing on a dirt road because both passengers became airsick. During takeoff, the aircraft drifted and the wing struck terrain and rocks. The pilot later attempted to land on a highway but hit a mile marker and ditch.

Incident Overview

During a cross-country flight, the pilot landed on a dirt road after both passengers experienced airsickness. After landing, the pilot initiated a takeoff from the road. During the takeoff roll, the aircraft drifted to the side of the road, resulting in the wing impacting terrain and rocks, which caused damage.

Subsequent Actions

Despite the wing damage and a suspicion that the rudder might not be functioning properly, the pilot continued the takeoff. Shortly thereafter, he decided to land on a highway due to concerns about the aircraft's condition. While attempting this landing, the pilot could not maintain directional control, and the airplane collided with a mile marker and a ditch.

Investigation Findings

An examination of the aircraft revealed no evidence of a rudder control system malfunction or any other malfunction. The source does not provide a probable cause for the incident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Aug 1995 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Arock, OR?

A pilot made an unscheduled landing on a dirt road because both passengers became airsick. During takeoff, the aircraft drifted and the wing struck terrain and rocks. The pilot later attempted to land on a highway but hit a mile marker and ditch.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Aug 1995 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N9675W, at Arock, OR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL DURING TAKEOFF FROM A DIRT ROAD.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04394. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.