Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Stalls During Go-Around After Swerving on Landing, Strikes Three Parked Aircraft (N9755T)

Compton, CA, US

On January 13, 1985, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N9755T) operated by Melvin M Mills was involved in an aviation accident near Compton, CA. 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 student pilot attempting a go-around after his aircraft swerved left on touchdown stalled the airplane while avoiding parked aircraft, destroying two and damaging a third.

Incident Overview

A student pilot was attempting to land on runway 25L when the aircraft swerved to the left. The pilot initiated a go-around. During the go-around, to avoid parked aircraft located south of the adjacent taxiway, the pilot applied aft elevator control. This action caused the aircraft to stall. The aircraft subsequently impacted the ground and struck three parked aircraft. Two of the parked aircraft were destroyed, and a third was damaged.

Wind Conditions

Weather data from a station six miles south of the accident site reported calm wind. However, according to the pilot, the wind at the accident site was from the north, which he stated blew the aircraft to the left during the landing attempt.

Pilot Experience

Examination of the pilot's logbook revealed no documented practice of go-around maneuvers.

Damage Assessment

The accident resulted in the destruction of two parked aircraft and damage to a third. No information about injuries or fatalities was provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Jan 1985 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Compton, CA?

A student pilot attempting a go-around after his aircraft swerved left on touchdown stalled the airplane while avoiding parked aircraft, destroying two and damaging a third.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Jan 1985 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N9755T, operated by Melvin M Mills, at Compton, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X35550. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.