Casualties unknown

Piper PA-28-181 and Unknown Aircraft Collide on Runway (N465MA)

Daytona Beach, FL, US

On September 2, 2007, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N465MA) was involved in an aviation accident near Daytona Beach, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The inadequate visual lookout of the pilot of the unknown airplane. 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 Piper PA-28-181 on short final to runway 23 encountered a yellow airplane that entered the active runway. The pilot initiated a go-around and the two aircraft collided. The unknown airplane departed and was not located; the PA-28-181 sustained substantial damage.

Narrative

A Piper PA-28-181 entered the traffic pattern via a 45-degree entry to the downwind leg. The pilot transmitted intentions on the Unicom frequency and announced position on downwind, base, and final legs. While at 100 feet on short final to runway 23, the pilot observed a "yellow airplane," described as resembling a "Piper J-3" or "American Legend Cub," enter the active runway ahead of his landing. The pilot transmitted a "going around" call and initiated a go-around, overflying the airplane on the runway. As the unknown airplane began its takeoff roll, the two aircraft came together. The PA-28-181 pilot subsequently landed straight ahead on the runway. The unknown airplane continued its flight and was not located.

Aircraft Damage

Examination of the PA-28-181 revealed a point of impact on the right wing leading edge; the airplane was substantially damaged. The unknown airplane was not examined or located.

Aftermath

The unknown airplane departed the airport and its identity, operator, and condition remain unknown. No further details about the occupants or injuries were provided in the source.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Sept 2007 Piper PA-28-181 accident near Daytona Beach, FL?

A Piper PA-28-181 on short final to runway 23 encountered a yellow airplane that entered the active runway. The pilot initiated a go-around and the two aircraft collided. The unknown airplane departed and was not located; the PA-28-181 sustained substantial damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Sept 2007 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N465MA, at Daytona Beach, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The inadequate visual lookout of the pilot of the unknown airplane.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070927X01454. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.