On October 21, 1989, a Cessna 172H (registration N1639F) operated by Ronald Ecord was involved in an aviation accident near Del Norte, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the climb, resulting in a stall and hard landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot practicing touch-and-go landings experienced a stall during the initial climb phase. The aircraft struck the runway surface with significant force, resulting in damage to the airframe.
What happened
The pilot and a passenger rated individual were conducting practice touch-and-go landings at an airport with a dirt runway. After completing a landing and subsequent takeoff, the pilot was unable to recall specific details regarding the subsequent crash sequence.
The passenger reported that the aircraft appeared sluggish during the initial climb phase. Shortly thereafter, the plane stalled, causing the nose to drop. The aircraft struck the dirt runway surface. Two witnesses on the scene observed the left wing roll low before the nose lowered and the aircraft landed hard on the unpaved surface.
The investigation
Investigation of the event focused on the sequence of events leading to the impact. Witnesses confirmed that the left wing rolled low prior to the nose lowering and the subsequent hard landing on the dirt runway.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the climb, resulting in a stall and hard landing.
What happened in the 21 Oct 1989 Cessna 172H accident near Del Norte, CO?
A pilot practicing touch-and-go landings experienced a stall during the initial climb phase. The aircraft struck the runway surface with significant force, resulting in damage to the airframe.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Oct 1989 involved a Cessna 172H, registration N1639F, operated by Ronald Ecord, at Del Norte, CO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the climb, resulting in a stall and hard landing.
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