On March 6, 1987, a Cessna 182 (registration N3871D) was involved in an aviation accident near Waycross, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain adequate airspeed during a change in wind conditions, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with the ground short of the runway. 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.
A pilot experienced a stall while approaching a sod runway as gusty winds subsided, leading to an impact short of the intended landing area and substantial structural damage.
What happened
The aircraft was conducting a normal approach to a sod strip when the pilot reported that the gusty wind conditions suddenly ceased. This change in weather resulted in the aircraft stalling and impacting the ground short of the intended landing area. The pilot was unable to recover from the sinking condition during this critical phase of flight.
The investigation
Post-accident examination revealed substantial structural damage to the airframe. The pilot did not report any mechanical failure or malfunction prior to the incident, indicating that the aircraft systems were functioning normally before the stall occurred.
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to maintain adequate airspeed during a change in wind conditions, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with the ground short of the runway.
What happened in the 6 Mar 1987 Cessna 182 accident near Waycross, GA?
A pilot experienced a stall while approaching a sod runway as gusty winds subsided, leading to an impact short of the intended landing area and substantial structural damage.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Mar 1987 involved a Cessna 182, registration N3871D, at Waycross, GA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inability to maintain adequate airspeed during a change in wind conditions, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with the ground short of the runway.
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