Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Runway Excursion After Go-Around Attempt (N9074W)

Westminster, MD, US

On September 15, 1996, a Piper PA-28-235 (registration N9074W) was involved in an aviation accident near Westminster, MD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's misjudgement of his speed and distance, his failure to attain the proper touchdown point during the landing, and his delay in executing a go-around (aborted landing), which resulted in an overrun. 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 reported striking trees beyond the runway end after attempting a go-around following a landing behind another aircraft. The aircraft touched down below the numbers and failed to slow sufficiently.

Accident Sequence

The pilot was entering the traffic pattern behind a Cessna aircraft. There was no radio communication between the two aircraft. After the Cessna landed, it maneuvered as if to take the runway again, but stopped short with its nose over the right side of the runway.

The pilot reported approaching with 40 degrees of flaps at about 70 mph. He came in high over the Cessna, pulled power, and descended to the runway. His last known airspeed was between 80 and 85 mph. He touched down below the numbers and applied the brakes, and the aircraft seemed to slow. However, when about 10 to 15 feet from the end of the runway, the pilot judged that he was too fast and the aircraft was not slowing properly. He applied power to initiate a go-around, but the airplane struck trees off the end of the runway.

Pilot Statement

The pilot provided the above account of the sequence of events. No further details regarding the aircraft or circumstances were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Sept 1996 Piper PA-28-235 accident near Westminster, MD?

A pilot reported striking trees beyond the runway end after attempting a go-around following a landing behind another aircraft. The aircraft touched down below the numbers and failed to slow sufficiently.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Sept 1996 involved a Piper PA-28-235, registration N9074W, at Westminster, MD.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's misjudgement of his speed and distance, his failure to attain the proper touchdown point during the landing, and his delay in executing a go-around (aborted landing), which resulted in an overrun.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06755. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.