On June 6, 1984, a Cessna 172P (registration N65491) operated by Four Star Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Haverhill, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a go-around, which resulted in a stall and subsequent loss of control. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An aircraft stalled and crashed shortly after initiating a go-around on final approach to runway 05, with witnesses observing the plane climb briefly before descending rapidly.
What happened
Witnesses observed the aircraft on a high final approach to runway 05. The pilot initiated a go-around over the runway at approximately 50 feet above ground level (AGL) with the flaps fully extended. The aircraft climbed to approximately 100 feet AGL before suddenly entering a stall. It then descended rapidly to the ground and crashed.
The investigation
Post-accident examination of the wreckage revealed that the flap actuator was found in the 'up' position, indicating that the flaps were not extended as reported during the go-around maneuver.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a go-around, which resulted in a stall and subsequent loss of control.
What happened in the 6 Jun 1984 Cessna 172P accident near Haverhill, MA?
An aircraft stalled and crashed shortly after initiating a go-around on final approach to runway 05, with witnesses observing the plane climb briefly before descending rapidly.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Jun 1984 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N65491, operated by Four Star Aviation, at Haverhill, MA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a go-around, which resulted in a stall and subsequent loss of control.
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