Casualties unknown

Airplane Collides with House After Go-Around Attempt (N3380W)

Suches, GA, US

On July 8, 2006, a Piper PA-32-260 (registration N3380W) was involved in an aviation accident near Suches, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to retract the wing flaps and his decision to make a turn while performing a go-around. 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 collided with a house after a go-around following a long landing on a grass strip. Witnesses observed the airplane enter a left downwind, touch down midfield, bounce, and then execute a go-around.

Accident Sequence

Multiple witnesses reported that the airplane entered a left downwind pattern for runway 02. The airplane touched down at the midfield area of the runway and bounced. After the bounce, it touched down again and rolled approximately 100 feet. When the airplane was about three-quarters down the runway, witnesses heard an increase in engine power. The airplane then lifted off, climbed to roughly 60 feet above ground level, and initiated a steep left turn. The airplane disappeared from the witnesses' view and subsequently collided with a house.

Pilot Statement

According to statements made by the pilot to first responders, the pilot had landed long on the grass strip and made the decision to execute a go-around.

Post-Accident Examination

An examination of the airplane conducted after the accident found that the wing flaps were extended to the 40-degree position. Inspections of the airframe, flight controls, engine assembly, and accessories revealed no evidence of a pre-crash mechanical failure or malfunction.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Jul 2006 Piper PA-32-260 accident near Suches, GA?

An airplane collided with a house after a go-around following a long landing on a grass strip. Witnesses observed the airplane enter a left downwind, touch down midfield, bounce, and then execute a go-around.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Jul 2006 involved a Piper PA-32-260, registration N3380W, at Suches, GA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to retract the wing flaps and his decision to make a turn while performing a go-around.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060714X00943. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.