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Casualties unknown

Loss of control during go-around due to delayed decision (N54905)

Whitemarsh, MD, US

On August 2, 1987, a Cessna 172P (registration N54905) operated by Russell W. Childs was involved in an aviation accident near Whitemarsh, MD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's delayed decision to initiate a go-around, which prevented the aircraft from achieving sufficient airspeed and resulted in loss of control after impacting static lines. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

The pilot delayed a go-around until it was impossible to accelerate, resulting in a collision with static lines and loss of control.

What happened

The pilot reported touching down near the end of the 2200-foot runway. Witnesses indicated the aircraft landed so far down the strip that stopping appeared impossible. The pilot delayed his go-around attempt until acceleration to a safe flying speed before liftoff was no longer feasible. A loss of control occurred after the aircraft collided with static lines above high tension wires while the stall warning horn sounded.

The investigation

The investigation focused on the timing of the go-around decision and the resulting aerodynamic state of the aircraft. Analysis confirmed that the pilot's delay prevented the necessary airspeed gain required for a successful climb-out.

Findings

The primary contributing factor was delayed go-around initiation. The pilot failed to recognize the insufficient runway remaining for a safe landing or the inability to achieve takeoff safety speed in time. This resulted in loss of control during the critical phase of flight.

Probable cause

The pilot's delayed decision to initiate a go-around, which prevented the aircraft from achieving sufficient airspeed and resulted in loss of control after impacting static lines.
Loss of control in flight

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Aug 1987 Cessna 172P accident near Whitemarsh, MD?

The pilot delayed a go-around until it was impossible to accelerate, resulting in a collision with static lines and loss of control.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Aug 1987 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N54905, operated by Russell W. Childs, at Whitemarsh, MD.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's delayed decision to initiate a go-around, which prevented the aircraft from achieving sufficient airspeed and resulted in loss of control after impacting static lines.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31726. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.