On February 26, 1983, a Cessna 172M (registration N12067) operated by Central Manor Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Mountville, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to retract the flaps during the go-around, which resulted in inadequate climb performance and collision with a power line and tree. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a go-around attempt in crosswind conditions, the aircraft failed to retract flaps, struck a power line and tree, and crashed nose-first.
What happened
The aircraft was attempting to land when it encountered crosswind conditions that caused the plane to crab and drift to the right of the runway. The pilot initiated a go-around procedure but neglected to retract the flaps from their full down position. As the aircraft climbed, it narrowly avoided a hangar before striking a power line. The impact with the power line was followed by a collision with a tree, which nearly tore a wing off the structure. The aircraft then descended and impacted the ground nose-first.
The investigation
Examination of the event revealed that the pilot did not retract the flaps during the go-around maneuver. This configuration contributed to the inability to climb effectively or avoid obstacles in the immediate vicinity of the runway.
Findings
The primary factors leading to the accident were the failure to retract the flaps during the go-around and the resulting loss of performance that prevented obstacle clearance. The aircraft collided with a power line and a tree before crashing to the ground.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to retract the flaps during the go-around, which resulted in inadequate climb performance and collision with a power line and tree.
What happened in the 26 Feb 1983 Cessna 172M accident near Mountville, PA?
During a go-around attempt in crosswind conditions, the aircraft failed to retract flaps, struck a power line and tree, and crashed nose-first.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Feb 1983 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N12067, operated by Central Manor Aviation, at Mountville, PA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to retract the flaps during the go-around, which resulted in inadequate climb performance and collision with a power line and tree.
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