Casualties unknown

Aircraft crashes into trees after turbulence encounter during go-around (N2510Y)

Oliver Springs, TN, US

On April 1, 1987, a Cessna 172D (registration N2510Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Oliver Springs, TN. 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 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft encountered heavy turbulence and strong crosswinds on short final, prompting a go-around that led to impact with trees in mountainous terrain.

What happened

The pilot reported that the aircraft was on short final approach to his private airstrip when it encountered heavy turbulence and a strong gusty crosswind. In response to these conditions, the pilot initiated a go-around maneuver. During the turning climbout, the aircraft flew through and over mountainous terrain where the pilot described the turbulence as extremely heavy. The aircraft subsequently lost altitude, falling below a ridge line into a hollow area where it impacted trees.

Findings

The accident occurred during the final approach phase of flight in mountainous terrain. Contributing factors included the encounter with heavy turbulence and strong gusty crosswinds near the ground, which necessitated a go-around. The extreme turbulence experienced during the climbing turn likely contributed to the loss of control or inability to maintain altitude over the ridge.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Apr 1987 Cessna 172D accident near Oliver Springs, TN?

An aircraft encountered heavy turbulence and strong crosswinds on short final, prompting a go-around that led to impact with trees in mountainous terrain.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Apr 1987 involved a Cessna 172D, registration N2510Y, at Oliver Springs, TN.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30580. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.