No fatalities

Aircraft Wing Damage During Runway Crossing

Atlanta, GA, United States

On January 29, 2011, a PIPER PA-28-161 operated by American Air Flight Training was involved in an aviation accident near Atlanta, GA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's wrong turn while taxiing resulting in a collision with a sign. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot mistakenly turned left onto a grassy area after receiving clearance to cross a runway, causing the right wing to strike a sign and damage the aileron and wing flap.

Incident Overview and Pilot Statement During the incident, the pilot reported that he was holding short of a runway intersection while awaiting further clearance from ground control. After receiving the specific clearance to cross the runway, the pilot stated that he mistakenly turned left onto a grassy area. The pilot also noted that there were no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane at the time of the event. ## Damage and Impact The right wing of the aircraft impacted a sign during the turn. This collision resulted in substantial damage to the aileron and the wing flap. The source does not provide additional details regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, location, or date.

Contributing factors

PilotIncorrect use/operation

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Jan 2011 PIPER PA-28-161 accident near Atlanta, GA?

A pilot mistakenly turned left onto a grassy area after receiving clearance to cross a runway, causing the right wing to strike a sign and damage the aileron and wing flap.

Were there any fatalities in the 29 Jan 2011 PIPER PA-28-161 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Jan 2011 involved a PIPER PA-28-161, operated by American Air Flight Training, at Atlanta, GA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's wrong turn while taxiing resulting in a collision with a sign.