On September 15, 1985, a Cessna 172M (registration N61624) was involved in an aviation accident near Emporia, KS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The right-seat pilot's inadequate control of the aircraft during a go-around, which resulted in the horizontal stabilizer striking a tree. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A gust of wind caused a misalignment on final approach, prompting the right-seat pilot to initiate a go-around that ended in a crash when the horizontal stabilizer struck a tree.
What happened
Two pilots were aboard the aircraft when the left-seat pilot was conducting the landing. A sudden gust of wind caused the aircraft to become misaligned with the runway. The right-seat pilot took control and attempted a go-around. He aimed for a clear spot between trees to climb through, but the horizontal stabilizer hit a tree and the aircraft crashed.
Findings
The right-seat pilot was flying at the time of the accident. The horizontal stabilizer struck a tree during the maneuver. No other mechanical failures were reported.
Probable cause
The right-seat pilot's inadequate control of the aircraft during a go-around, which resulted in the horizontal stabilizer striking a tree.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 15 Sept 1985 Cessna 172M accident near Emporia, KS?
A gust of wind caused a misalignment on final approach, prompting the right-seat pilot to initiate a go-around that ended in a crash when the horizontal stabilizer struck a tree.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Sept 1985 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N61624, at Emporia, KS.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The right-seat pilot's inadequate control of the aircraft during a go-around, which resulted in the horizontal stabilizer striking a tree.
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