Casualties unknown

Pilot Loses Control During Turnback After Departure (N8895V)

Battle Mountain, NV, US

On September 10, 1988, a Cessna 172M (registration N8895V) was involved in an aviation accident near Battle Mountain, NV. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot attempted a right turn back to the departure airport after the aircraft failed to climb, losing control and descending nose-low. Density altitude was 6,500 feet, winds were gusting.

Accident Details

Approximately one mile from the departure airport and at an altitude of 200 feet above ground level, the pilot decided to execute a right turn back to the airport. The aircraft was not climbing and power lines were in the flight path. During the turn, the pilot lost control of the aircraft. The aircraft then descended to the ground in a nose-low attitude.

Flight Conditions

The density altitude at the time of the accident was approximately 6,500 feet. Winds were recorded at 17 knots, gusting to 20 knots. The aircraft was within 50 pounds of its gross takeoff weight.

Aircraft Examination

Post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed no abnormalities except for worn spark plugs. No other mechanical issues were identified.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 Sept 1988 Cessna 172M accident near Battle Mountain, NV?

A pilot attempted a right turn back to the departure airport after the aircraft failed to climb, losing control and descending nose-low. Density altitude was 6,500 feet, winds were gusting.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 Sept 1988 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N8895V, at Battle Mountain, NV.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X26934. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.