Casualties unknown

Bounced Landing and Go-Around Attempt Ends in Tree Strike (N3821Q)

Moose River, ME, US

On July 14, 1983, a Cessna 172L (registration N3821Q) operated by Stephen Elgin Sallee was involved in an aviation accident near Moose River, ME. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported encountering wind shear and stalling on final approach, leading to bounced landings. During a go-around, the aircraft struck trees and crashed. An inspector later landed at the site and noted similar wind conditions but no wind shear.

Accident Overview

A pilot reported that during a final approach, the aircraft encountered wind shear and stalled. This resulted in a bounced landing, after which the airplane settled and bounced again. The pilot then attempted to execute a go-around, but was unable to accelerate the aircraft to climb speed. During the go-around attempt, the airplane struck trees and crashed.

Wind Conditions

The pilot estimated that the wind was from 270 degrees at 20 knots, gusting to 30 knots. Approximately one hour after the accident, an investigating inspector landed at the accident site in a Cessna 172. The inspector noted that the wind conditions were the same as those reported by the pilot, except that the inspector did not encounter wind shear.

Investigation

The investigation is based solely on the pilot's report and the inspector's observations. No information about the aircraft type, registration, engine count, date, operator, location, occupants, injuries, or damage items was provided in the source. The source also did not specify the time of day, weather characterization, or any ATC involvement.

Commentary

This accident highlights the challenges that wind shear and gusty conditions can pose during landing and go-around maneuvers. However, the source does not provide any analysis, conclusions, or causal links, and no probable cause has been stated.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 Jul 1983 Cessna 172L accident near Moose River, ME?

A pilot reported encountering wind shear and stalling on final approach, leading to bounced landings. During a go-around, the aircraft struck trees and crashed. An inspector later landed at the site and noted similar wind conditions but no wind shear.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 Jul 1983 involved a Cessna 172L, registration N3821Q, operated by Stephen Elgin Sallee, at Moose River, ME.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X43908. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.