Casualties unknown

Aircraft Stalls During Practice Go-Around at Private Airstrip (N52778)

Southern Pines, NC, US

On April 17, 1985, a Cessna 172P (registration N52778) operated by Mid South Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Southern Pines, NC. 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

During a practice go-around, a pilot applied full throttle after descending to 20 ft above the runway, then attempted to adjust carb heat but found it stuck. Raising the nose to clear trees led to a stall; post-crash examination revealed no mechanical failure.

Incident Overview

A pilot conducted a practice go-around at a private airstrip. After descending to approximately 20 feet above the runway, the pilot applied full throttle. The pilot then attempted to push the carburetor heat control forward, but it would not move.

Stall Event

In order to clear trees at the end of the runway, the pilot raised the nose of the aircraft. This action caused the aircraft to stall.

Post-Crash Examination

Following the accident, a post-crash examination of the aircraft was performed. The examination failed to disclose any mechanical failure or malfunction.

Aircraft and Operational Details

The specific aircraft type, registration, and operator were not provided in the source. The incident occurred during daylight hours on a private airstrip. No information regarding occupants, injuries, or damage was stated.

Investigation

No probable cause was determined, as the investigation did not identify any mechanical issues. The pilot's actions and the carburetor heat control issue were noted, but no causal factors were explicitly established.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Apr 1985 Cessna 172P accident near Southern Pines, NC?

During a practice go-around, a pilot applied full throttle after descending to 20 ft above the runway, then attempted to adjust carb heat but found it stuck. Raising the nose to clear trees led to a stall; post-crash examination revealed no mechanical failure.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Apr 1985 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N52778, operated by Mid South Aviation, at Southern Pines, NC.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36087. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.