No fatalities

Takeoff Aborted After Hydroplaning on Standing Water (N720GP)

York, PA, US

On November 25, 2004, a Piper PA 28-181 (registration N720GP) operated by Thomas J. Olson was involved in an aviation accident near York, PA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate weather evaluation and his decision to depart from a rain-soaked runway with strong quartering tailwinds, which resulted in a runway overrun and collision with a fence during the aborted takeoff. 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

A pilot delayed departure due to heavy rain, then accepted a clearance through a reported weather gap. During takeoff, wind and rain intensified, leading to a rejected takeoff at 55 knots. The airplane overran the runway and struck a fence.

Preflight and Departure

The pilot was informed of heavy rain in the area of the departure airport and decided to delay the takeoff for 30 minutes. While waiting, the departure controller contacted the pilot, advising of a "hole" to the west and offering a clearance. The pilot accepted the clearance and taxied to runway 17 in light rain.

Takeoff and Rejected Takeoff

During the takeoff roll, the wind increased and the rain fell harder, making it difficult for the pilot to maintain directional control. At a speed of 55 knots, approximately the midpoint of the 5,100-foot runway, the pilot aborted the takeoff. The airplane overran the runway and struck a fence beyond the departure end.

Pilot Report and Weather

The pilot reported that there were no mechanical deficiencies with the airplane. The pilot stated that the airplane hydroplaned on the large amounts of standing water present on the runway. The weather reported at the airport included winds from 300 degrees at 17 knots, gusting to 27 knots.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 Nov 2004 Piper PA 28-181 accident near York, PA?

A pilot delayed departure due to heavy rain, then accepted a clearance through a reported weather gap. During takeoff, wind and rain intensified, leading to a rejected takeoff at 55 knots. The airplane overran the runway and struck a fence.

Were there any fatalities in the 25 Nov 2004 Piper PA 28-181 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 Nov 2004 involved a Piper PA 28-181, registration N720GP, operated by Thomas J. Olson, at York, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate weather evaluation and his decision to depart from a rain-soaked runway with strong quartering tailwinds, which resulted in a runway overrun and collision with a fence during the aborted takeoff.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20041222X02023. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.