Aircraft strikes runway end following wind shift and loss of altitude

Casualties unknown • Nanwalek, AK, US

A pilot attempted a go-around after a wind shift, during which the aircraft lost altitude and struck the end of the runway.

What happened

While approaching the airport, the pilot flew over the field to observe local wind conditions. The initial observation indicated that the wind favored an approach to runway 19. However, during the actual approach, the wind shifted, making runway 01 the preferred direction.

In response to this change, the pilot performed a go-around and transitioned into a left base for runway 01. The approach path for runway 01 is characterized by terrain restrictions, specifically an abrupt mountain face and trees situated .21 mile from the approach end of the runway.

The pilot reported that after the aircraft passed over the bluff and the trees, the airplane fell out of the sky. In an attempt to recover, the pilot applied full power and leveled the aircraft's nose. Despite these efforts, the airplane struck the end of the runway and slid approximately 100 feet before coming to a stop. The pilot was not injured.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1995-12-10 Piper PA-32-300 accident near Nanwalek, AK?

A pilot attempted a go-around after a wind shift, during which the aircraft lost altitude and struck the end of the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-12-10 involved a Piper PA-32-300, registration N15175, at Nanwalek, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions. A factor in the accident was the variable wind.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04935. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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