Casualties unknown

Aircraft Departs Runway After Landing, Collides with Trees (N8844V)

Sylacauga, AL, US

On March 4, 2001, a Bellanca BL-17-30A (registration N8844V) was involved in an aviation accident near Sylacauga, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing rollout, and the subsequent runway excursion and collision with trees. 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

An aircraft landing on runway 27 in gusty crosswind conditions left rubber streaks from all three tires before veering off at a 45-degree angle and striking trees about 50 feet from the runway edge.

Incident Overview

An aircraft landing on runway 27 encountered reported wind conditions of 230 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 21 knots. Upon touchdown, the aircraft immediately began leaving rubber streaks on the runway from all three tires. The aircraft subsequently departed the runway surface at approximately a 45-degree angle and collided with trees located about 50 feet from the runway edge.

Postcrash Examination

A postcrash examination of the aircraft revealed no precrash mechanical malfunctions of the steering system or braking system. The aircraft's landing gear and structural integrity were assessed during the examination, but no additional details were provided in the source.

Analysis Limitations

The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, operator, date, number of occupants, or injuries. No information is available regarding the time of day, weather characterization beyond the reported wind, or involvement of air traffic control. The report solely describes the events and the absence of mechanical issues with steering or braking.

Conclusion

Based on the available facts, the aircraft experienced a runway excursion after landing in crosswind conditions, leading to a collision with trees. No probable cause is stated in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Mar 2001 Bellanca BL-17-30A accident near Sylacauga, AL?

An aircraft landing on runway 27 in gusty crosswind conditions left rubber streaks from all three tires before veering off at a 45-degree angle and striking trees about 50 feet from the runway edge.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Mar 2001 involved a Bellanca BL-17-30A, registration N8844V, at Sylacauga, AL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing rollout, and the subsequent runway excursion and collision with trees.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010308X00568. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.