Casualties unknown

Aircraft Veers Off Runway During Takeoff, Strikes Taxiway Signs (N66BH)

Marquette, MI, US

On March 27, 1999, a Piper PA-32-300 (registration N66BH) was involved in an aviation accident near Marquette, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate compensation for the wind conditions which resulted in his failure to maintain directional control. Factors associated with the accident were the gusty crosswind conditions and the taxiway sign which the airplane contacted. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 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

During takeoff on runway 26 with gusty winds, an airplane veered left, struck two taxiway signs, and spun after the main landing gear caught in snow.

Incident Overview

An airplane experienced a runway excursion during its takeoff roll on runway 26. The local wind was reported from 230 degrees at 13 knots, gusting to 20 knots. According to the pilot, the aircraft veered off the left side of the runway just prior to liftoff.

Pilot Actions

Upon noticing the deviation, the pilot reduced throttle. He then observed a taxiway sign directly ahead and advanced the throttle again. The airplane cleared that sign but subsequently struck another sign. After this second impact, the pilot pulled the power back. The main landing gear then became caught in snow, causing the aircraft to spin around.

Sequence of Events

The incident occurred during the takeoff roll on runway 26. The pilot reported that the airplane first veered left, prompting the throttle reduction. After advancing the throttle to avoid the first sign, the second sign was contacted. Following the power reduction, the main landing gear's entanglement with snow resulted in the aircraft spinning. No further details on injuries, damage, or aircraft specifics were provided in the source.

All Piper PA-32 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Mar 1999 Piper PA-32-300 accident near Marquette, MI?

During takeoff on runway 26 with gusty winds, an airplane veered left, struck two taxiway signs, and spun after the main landing gear caught in snow.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Mar 1999 involved a Piper PA-32-300, registration N66BH, at Marquette, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's inadequate compensation for the wind conditions which resulted in his failure to maintain directional control. Factors associated with the accident were the gusty crosswind conditions and the taxiway sign which the airplane contacted.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001205X00291. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.