On August 5, 1984, a Cessna 152 (registration N5406B) operated by Gene Falkenstein was involved in an aviation accident near Franklin, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain terrain clearance while encountering a downdraft. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An aircraft encountered a downdraft at 3800 feet, leading to a collision with rising terrain at 2300 feet elevation. Witnesses reported low-altitude maneuvering prior to the crash.
What happened
The pilot stated that an encounter with a downdraft at 3800 feet mean sea level caused the aircraft to collide with rising terrain. The impact occurred at an elevation of 2300 feet. Prior to the mishap, the flight operations base overflew the area within the hour and reported calm winds and no turbulence. Witnesses heard the aircraft maneuvering at low altitude in a valley near the passenger's house.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the immediate circumstances of the collision. The pilot attributed the loss of control to the downdraft. No mechanical failures were identified as contributing factors.
Findings
Contributing factors included the terrain and the weather conditions at the time of the accident. The aircraft was operating in a valley with rising terrain, which limited maneuvering options after the downdraft encounter.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain terrain clearance while encountering a downdraft.
What happened in the 5 Aug 1984 Cessna 152 accident near Franklin, NC?
An aircraft encountered a downdraft at 3800 feet, leading to a collision with rising terrain at 2300 feet elevation. Witnesses reported low-altitude maneuvering prior to the crash.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 5 Aug 1984 involved a Cessna 152, registration N5406B, operated by Gene Falkenstein, at Franklin, NC.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain terrain clearance while encountering a downdraft.
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