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Pilot Reports Weathervane During Landing, Go-Around Results in Drainage Ditch Impact (N1244C)

Novato, CA, US

On March 31, 1999, a Piper PA-22-135 (registration N1244C) operated by John Long was involved in an aviation accident near Novato, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the pilot to adequately compensate for the wind conditions and to maintain directional control of the aircraft while landing. 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

During landing with a left quartering headwind, the pilot experienced weathervaning after lowering the tail wheel. Initiating a go-around, the aircraft turned downwind, lost lift, and impacted a drainage ditch parallel to the runway.

Landing and Go-Around

The pilot reported that he was landing with a left quartering headwind. The touchdown was normal, but as he lowered the tail wheel, the aircraft weathervaned to the left into the wind. He applied full right pedal and initiated a go-around. The aircraft left the ground, turned downwind, and lost lift.

Impact with Drainage Ditch

The airplane impacted the drainage ditch area parallel to the runway. The airport features drainage ditches and levees spanning the entire length on both sides of the runway. The ditches are approximately 6 to 8 feet deep and 12 feet wide, located about 90 feet from the runway centerline. The levees are approximately 20 feet beyond the ditches.

Relevant Design Standards

FAA Advisory Circular AC 150/5300-13, regarding runway and taxiway design, indicates the Object Free Area for the accident airport to be 200 feet on either side of the runway centerline. The AC requires the Obstacle Free Zone to be 125 feet on each side of the runway centerline, and states that obstacles within that zone cannot be higher than 3 inches above grade; the sides of the ditches and levee rise about 3 feet above grade.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Mar 1999 Piper PA-22-135 accident near Novato, CA?

During landing with a left quartering headwind, the pilot experienced weathervaning after lowering the tail wheel. Initiating a go-around, the aircraft turned downwind, lost lift, and impacted a drainage ditch parallel to the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Mar 1999 involved a Piper PA-22-135, registration N1244C, operated by John Long, at Novato, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The failure of the pilot to adequately compensate for the wind conditions and to maintain directional control of the aircraft while landing. A factor is the airport's failure to follow proper procedure in ensuring adequate obstacle and object free clearance around the runway.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001205X00355. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.