Casualties unknown

1990-06-01: Cessna 152 (N89834) — Judson Flying Service — Longmont, CO

Longmont, CO, US

On June 1, 1990, a Cessna 152 (registration N89834) operated by Judson Flying Service was involved in an aviation accident near Longmont, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT CONTINUED INTO HAZARDOUS WEATHER CONDITIONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

During a go-around after encountering windshear on final approach, the flight instructor retracted flaps contrary to procedure, causing the aircraft to settle and hit a tree. The instructor sustained minor injuries, the student fatal injuries, and the aircraft was destroyed.

Incident Details

An instructional flight was concluding with a final approach for landing when the aircraft encountered windshear and microburst activity. The pilot initiated a go-around. At the start of the go-around, the flaps were retracted from full deployment to the up position, which was contrary to published procedures. The aircraft subsequently settled and struck a tree. The flight instructor sustained minor injuries, while the student pilot suffered fatal injuries. The aircraft was destroyed.

Weather Conditions

Prior to the accident, a pilot report (PIREP) was issued warning of high winds, windshear, and strong downdrafts. The National Center for Atmospheric Research reported that a microburst gust front passed through the airport between 1844 and 1846 local time.

Pilot Background

The flight instructor was aware of advisory circulars concerning windshear but did not have a working knowledge of their content.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X23126. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.