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Go-Around Initiated After Tailwind Encounter Leads to Tree Strike and Grass Field Landing (N8071Z)

Edgartown, MA, US

On October 1, 2002, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N8071Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Edgartown, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate in-flight evaluation of the landing facilities wind conditions, and inadequate airspeed resulting in a stall/mush. A factor related to the accident was the tailwind condition. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 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 approach to runway 06, a pilot encountered severe turbulence and a wind shift. After crossing the threshold with a tailwind, a go-around was initiated. The aircraft descended, struck a tree, and came to rest upright in a grass field.

Incident Overview

A pilot conducting an approach to runway 06 experienced severe turbulence and a sudden wind shift. After crossing the runway threshold, the airplane appeared to be landing with a tailwind, prompting the pilot to initiate a go-around.

Go-Around and Collision

During the go-around, the pilot pulled back on the control yoke, but the airplane continued to descend toward the ground. The airplane struck a tree, then touched down in a grass field located beyond the departure end of the runway. The airplane came to rest upright.

Weather Information

The recorded weather at a nearby airport around the time of the incident included winds from 250 degrees at 16 knots, gusting to 21 knots.

Related events

Same aircraft family

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Oct 2002 Piper PA-28-181 accident near Edgartown, MA?

During approach to runway 06, a pilot encountered severe turbulence and a wind shift. After crossing the threshold with a tailwind, a go-around was initiated. The aircraft descended, struck a tree, and came to rest upright in a grass field.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Oct 2002 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N8071Z, at Edgartown, MA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate in-flight evaluation of the landing facilities wind conditions, and inadequate airspeed resulting in a stall/mush. A factor related to the accident was the tailwind condition.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20021018X05340. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.