On April 20, 1991, a Cessna 172L (registration N5536E) operated by Wade Gillaspie was involved in an aviation accident near Huntsville, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of directional control during the landing flare due to ballooning from a gust and inadequate recovery technique. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot established a nose-high flare with full flaps, causing the aircraft to balloon in a gust. Partial power application failed to restore control, resulting in a wingtip drag and nose-over.
What happened
The pilot initiated the landing flare with the aircraft pitched up and configured with full flaps. A sudden gust of wind caused the airplane to balloon upward during this phase. In an effort to recover from the ballooning, the pilot applied partial power. However, directional control was lost at that moment. The aircraft dragged a wingtip and subsequently nosed over on the runway.
The investigation
Post-accident examination confirmed the configuration of the aircraft at the time of the incident. The pilot reported that his flight training emphasized the use of full stall landing techniques, which likely influenced his decision to maintain a nose-high attitude during the flare.
Probable cause
The pilot's loss of directional control during the landing flare due to ballooning from a gust and inadequate recovery technique.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 20 Apr 1991 Cessna 172L accident near Huntsville, TX?
A pilot established a nose-high flare with full flaps, causing the aircraft to balloon in a gust. Partial power application failed to restore control, resulting in a wingtip drag and nose-over.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Apr 1991 involved a Cessna 172L, registration N5536E, operated by Wade Gillaspie, at Huntsville, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's loss of directional control during the landing flare due to ballooning from a gust and inadequate recovery technique.
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