Casualties unknown

Airplane Swerves on Landing, Strikes Embankment After Runway Excursion (N5045Z)

South Boston, VA, US

On June 16, 2006, a Piper PA-22-108 (registration N5045Z) was involved in an aviation accident near South Boston, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control, which resulted in a collision with a rising embankment. A factor in the accident was the pilot's lack of recent flight experience. 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 airplane swerved upon touchdown, departed the runway, and struck a small embankment. No mechanical anomalies were found. The pilot had no recent flight experience.

Incident Summary

During landing, the airplane swerved after touchdown, veered off the runway, and collided with a small embankment. The event resulted in damage to the aircraft.

Investigation Findings

A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the airplane following the incident. The inspection revealed no mechanical anomalies or deficiencies. All systems and components appeared to function normally.

Pilot Background

Review of the pilot's records showed that his last logbook entry was dated August 1979. The pilot informed the inspector that he had recently purchased the airplane. He stated that he had no recent flight experience and had not received any instruction in preparation for the flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Jun 2006 Piper PA-22-108 accident near South Boston, VA?

An airplane swerved upon touchdown, departed the runway, and struck a small embankment. No mechanical anomalies were found. The pilot had no recent flight experience.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Jun 2006 involved a Piper PA-22-108, registration N5045Z, at South Boston, VA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control, which resulted in a collision with a rising embankment. A factor in the accident was the pilot's lack of recent flight experience.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060721X00979. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.