Casualties unknown

Stall During Go-Around Results in Substantial Damage (N15491)

Roanoke, TX, US

On July 5, 1987, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration N15491) was involved in an aviation accident near Roanoke, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the go-around maneuver, which resulted in a stall and subsequent collision with power lines and the ground. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft stalled and struck power lines during a go-around maneuver on final approach due to an excessive sink rate, resulting in substantial damage.

What happened

The accident occurred while the aircraft was established on final approach. During this phase of flight, the pilot encountered an excessive sink rate that necessitated immediate corrective action. To arrest the descent and ensure a safe landing, the pilot elected to execute a go-around maneuver.

When power was applied to initiate the climb, the aircraft's pitch attitude changed abruptly. The nose and right wing pitched up significantly, causing the aircraft to turn approximately 90 degrees. This sudden change in configuration and attitude led to an aerodynamic stall. Following the loss of lift, the aircraft descended rapidly and contacted a set of power lines. After striking the wires, the aircraft continued its descent until it impacted the ground.

The investigation

Post-accident examination revealed that the aircraft sustained substantial damage as a result of the collision with the power lines and subsequent impact with the terrain. The sequence of events was driven by the pilot's decision to initiate a go-around while managing an excessive sink rate, which resulted in a stall during the initial climb phase.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the go-around maneuver, which resulted in a stall and subsequent collision with power lines and the ground.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Jul 1987 Piper PA-28-180 accident near Roanoke, TX?

An aircraft stalled and struck power lines during a go-around maneuver on final approach due to an excessive sink rate, resulting in substantial damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Jul 1987 involved a Piper PA-28-180, registration N15491, at Roanoke, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the go-around maneuver, which resulted in a stall and subsequent collision with power lines and the ground.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31518. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.