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Pilot Reports High and Fast Landing with Tailwind Results in Veer-Off and Tree Strike

Yellow Pine, ID, United States

On July 30, 2012, a PIPER PA28-150 150 operated by Bradley R Allen was involved in an aviation accident near Yellow Pine, ID. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to attain and maintain an appropriate glide path, failure to perform a go-around, and failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll. This summary draws on records from NTSB.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported that during a straight-in approach to a wet, grassy airstrip, a strong tailwind caused a high and fast landing, leading to a veer-off and impact with trees, damaging both wings.

Approach and Landing

The pilot reported that his straight-in approach to a wet, grassy airstrip was high and fast. He attributed the increased speed to a strong tailwind. The pilot stated that he touched down past midfield.

Impact and Damage

Upon applying the hand brake hard, the airplane veered 45 degrees to the left before impacting trees. The impact resulted in substantial damage to both wings.

Pilot's Comments

The pilot stated that he could have gone around upon recognizing that the approach angle was high and a tailwind condition existed. He further stated that he could have flown over the field, observed the windsock, and landed into the wind.

Contributing factors

Descent/approach/glide path — Not attained/maintainedDirectional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Jul 2012 PIPER PA28-150 150 accident near Yellow Pine, ID?

A pilot reported that during a straight-in approach to a wet, grassy airstrip, a strong tailwind caused a high and fast landing, leading to a veer-off and impact with trees, damaging both wings.

Were there any fatalities in the 30 Jul 2012 PIPER PA28-150 150 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Jul 2012 involved a PIPER PA28-150 150, operated by Bradley R Allen, at Yellow Pine, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to attain and maintain an appropriate glide path, failure to perform a go-around, and failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll.

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