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Casualties unknown

Engine Failure and Subsequent Stall During Go-Around (N4843G)

Ainsworth, NE, US

On January 29, 1989, a Cessna 172 (registration N4843G) was involved in an aviation accident near Ainsworth, NE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE LOSS OF POWER FROM UNDETERMINED REASONS DURING AN ATTEMPTED GO-AROUND. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE AND THE CROSSWIND CONDITIONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a go-around following a crosswind approach, an aircraft experienced an engine failure at 150 feet. The pilot attempted an emergency landing but allowed airspeed to deteriorate, resulting in a mush-stall and collision with terrain. Investigation did not find the engine failure cause.

Flight Details

The private pilot reported attempting a landing on Runway 30 with a 40-degree left crosswind of about 15 knots. Dissatisfied with the approach, the pilot elected to perform a go-around before touchdown. After establishing a positive rate of climb and reaching approximately 150 feet above ground level, the engine failed.

Engine Failure and Emergency Procedures

The pilot executed normal emergency procedures in an effort to restart the engine but was unsuccessful. The pilot then attempted to land on a rough farm field, but stated that airspeed was allowed to deteriorate, leading to a mush-stall and collision with terrain.

Post-Accident Investigation

Post-accident investigation and engine run-up did not reveal the cause of the engine failure. The carburetor and heat box were destroyed by impact, requiring a replacement carburetor to be fitted for the run-up. There was no evidence of fuel contamination or fuel starvation/exhaustion.

Meteorological Conditions

Meteorological conditions at the time were not conducive to carburetor icing. The pilot had been well trained in the usage of carburetor leaning techniques and carburetor heat control.

Related events

Same aircraft family

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Jan 1989 Cessna 172 accident near Ainsworth, NE?

During a go-around following a crosswind approach, an aircraft experienced an engine failure at 150 feet. The pilot attempted an emergency landing but allowed airspeed to deteriorate, resulting in a mush-stall and collision with terrain. Investigation did not find the engine failure cause.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Jan 1989 involved a Cessna 172, registration N4843G, at Ainsworth, NE.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE LOSS OF POWER FROM UNDETERMINED REASONS DURING AN ATTEMPTED GO-AROUND. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE AND THE CROSSWIND CONDITIONS.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X27644. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.