On January 16, 1991, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N32108) operated by Joseph Mock was involved in an aviation accident near Houston, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR'S DELAY IN TAKING REMEDIAL ACTION, HIS INADVERTENTLY ALLOWING THE AIRPLANE TO STALL, AND EXCEEDING THE AIRCRAFT'S CLIMB PERFORMANCE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a forced landing simulation, a flight instructor and student attempted a go-around after observing a glider under tow near the runway threshold. The airplane failed to develop lift, struck a tree, and crashed.
Incident Overview
A flight instructor and a student pilot were conducting a forced landing simulation at the West Houston Lakeside Airport. The instructor reduced engine power to idle to replicate an engine failure and directed the student to demonstrate a forced landing procedure.
Sequence of Events
According to the student, he was halfway through the downwind leg and wanted to turn toward the runway, but the instructor instructed him to continue. After turning onto the base leg, both occupants observed an airplane under tow near the runway threshold. The instructor then took control of the airplane and initiated a go-around, applying full power. The instructor reported that the airplane 'did not develop any lift.' The last observed airspeed was 63 miles per hour, and the stall warning light was described as 'flickering.' Subsequently, the airplane struck a tree and crashed into an open field.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 16 Jan 1991 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Houston, TX?
During a forced landing simulation, a flight instructor and student attempted a go-around after observing a glider under tow near the runway threshold. The airplane failed to develop lift, struck a tree, and crashed.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 Jan 1991 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N32108, operated by Joseph Mock, at Houston, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR'S DELAY IN TAKING REMEDIAL ACTION, HIS INADVERTENTLY ALLOWING THE AIRPLANE TO STALL, AND EXCEEDING THE AIRCRAFT'S CLIMB PERFORMANCE. FACTORS WERE: THE FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR'S LACK OF EXPERIENCE IN AIRCRAFT TYPE, HIS LACK OF EXPERIENCE AS A FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR, AND EXCEEDING THE AIRPLANE'S MAXIMUM…
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