No fatalities

PIPER PA28 180 accident at South Saint Paul, MN, 5 May 2025

South Saint Paul, MN, United States

On May 5, 2025, a PIPER PA28 180 operated by None was involved in an aviation accident near South Saint Paul, MN. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot’s inadvertent brake application during the touchdown, that resulted in abnormal runway contact and a loss of directional control. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 17 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

Probable cause

The student pilot’s inadvertent brake application during the touchdown, that resulted in abnormal runway contact and a loss of directional control. Contributing to the accident was the flight instructor’s inadequate supervision of the student pilot during the landing.

— NTSB Determination

Contributing factors

Student/instructed pilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintainedIncorrect use/operationInstructor/check pilot

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 May 2025 PIPER PA28 180 accident near South Saint Paul, MN?

The student pilot’s inadvertent brake application during the touchdown, that resulted in abnormal runway contact and a loss of directional control. Contributing to the accident was the flight instructor’s inadequate supervision of the student pilot during the landing.

Were there any fatalities in the 5 May 2025 PIPER PA28 180 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 May 2025 involved a PIPER PA28 180, operated by None, at South Saint Paul, MN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The student pilot’s inadvertent brake application during the touchdown, that resulted in abnormal runway contact and a loss of directional control. Contributing to the accident was the flight instructor’s inadequate supervision of the student pilot during the landing.