Casualties unknown

Loss of Control During Go-Around Results in Runway Excursion (N3711P)

Searcy, AR, US

On May 16, 1998, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N3711P) was involved in an aviation accident near Searcy, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the takeoff roll. A factor was the certified flight instructor's inadequate supervision. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During an instructional flight, an instrument-rated private pilot lost directional control on takeoff roll after a go-around. The airplane veered right, exited the runway, and came to rest nose down in a drainage ditch.

Incident Overview

A private pilot with 1,800 flight hours and an instrument rating was receiving instruction to familiarize himself with the airplane. The flight involved a landing on runway 01, after which the instructor pilot retracted the flaps and directed the private pilot to execute a go-around.

Sequence of Events

As the private pilot applied takeoff power, the airplane began to veer to the right. Despite the application of full rudder and aileron deflection in combination with maximum braking, the pilot was unable to direct the airplane back to the runway centerline. Subsequently, the airplane exited the right side of the runway and came to rest nose down in a drainage ditch located between the runway and a taxiway.

Pilot Information

The private pilot held an instrument rating and had accumulated approximately 1,800 flight hours. The purpose of the flight was to familiarize the pilot with the specific airplane's handling characteristics under the supervision of an instructor.

Aircraft Disposition

After departing the runway surface, the airplane came to a stop in a drainage ditch, with its nose lowered into the ditch. The aircraft remained between the runway and a taxiway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10078. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.