Casualties unknown

1990-07-10: Cessna 170 (N4068V) — Mcgowen, Stanley S — Fillmore, UT

Fillmore, UT, US

On July 10, 1990, a Cessna 170 (registration N4068V) operated by Mcgowen, Stanley S was involved in an aviation accident near Fillmore, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AIRSPEED WHICH RESULTED IN INADVERTENT STALL. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot aborted a takeoff, removed baggage, and attempted again. The aircraft lifted off with minimal acceleration, banked right, and crashed, seriously injuring both occupants.

What happened

The pilot's initial attempt to take off was aborted due to insufficient performance or other concerns not explicitly detailed in the source. After returning to the ramp, the pilot removed some baggage from the aircraft to reduce weight. A second takeoff attempt was then made.

During this second attempt, the aircraft was observed lifting off the ground with very little acceleration noted by witnesses or observers. Shortly after becoming airborne and climbing to approximately 100 feet, the aircraft began a right bank. It then descended abruptly and impacted the ground.

The investigation

The source text does not provide specific details regarding mechanical examinations or investigative findings beyond the observed flight path and outcome.

Findings

The sequence of events indicates that despite the removal of baggage, the aircraft was unable to maintain controlled flight after takeoff. The abrupt descent following a right bank suggests a loss of control or performance issue immediately after leaving the ground. Both the pilot and his passenger were seriously injured in the impact.

Safety message

This incident highlights the critical importance of accurate weight and balance calculations before takeoff. Aborting a takeoff to remove weight can be an effective safety measure, but it must be followed by a thorough assessment of whether the aircraft can achieve safe climb performance with the remaining load.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X23669. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.