On February 6, 1990, a Cessna 152 (registration N6471L) operated by Westwind Aviation Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Phoenix, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The in-flight separation of the left wing due to overstress during the practice maneuvers. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A student pilot practicing maneuvers in a Cessna 152 experienced an in-flight break-up of the left wing while under high engine power, resulting in a fatal crash. Ground witnesses observed the aircraft spinning to the ground with a portion of the wing missing.
What happened
A solo student pilot had rented a Cessna 152 from an operator specifically to practice flight maneuvers. While the aircraft was in the vicinity of the accident site, ground witnesses reported hearing a loud engine noise. Upon looking up, the witnesses observed a portion of the aircraft's left wing missing as the plane spun toward the ground while under high engine power.
The investigation
Examination of the wreckage revealed that all fractures at the separation points exhibited overload characteristics, indicating that the structural failure was caused by forces exceeding the design limits of the airframe rather than pre-existing fatigue or material defects.
Probable cause
The in-flight separation of the left wing due to overstress during the practice maneuvers.
What happened in the 6 Feb 1990 Cessna 152 accident near Phoenix, AZ?
A student pilot practicing maneuvers in a Cessna 152 experienced an in-flight break-up of the left wing while under high engine power, resulting in a fatal crash. Ground witnesses observed the aircraft spinning to the ground with a portion of the wing missing.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Feb 1990 involved a Cessna 152, registration N6471L, operated by Westwind Aviation Inc., at Phoenix, AZ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The in-flight separation of the left wing due to overstress during the practice maneuvers.
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