On June 25, 1991, a Cessna 172M (registration N20430) was involved in an aviation accident near Beckley, WV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO ATTAIN ADEQUATE FLYING SPEED. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft failed to climb past 100 feet after takeoff, maintaining 70 knots with flaps down. The plane subsequently mushed into trees approximately one mile beyond the runway end.
What happened
The pilot reported that shortly after takeoff, the aircraft was unable to achieve a positive rate of climb, remaining below 100 feet above ground level. At this low altitude, the indicated airspeed was recorded at 70 knots with the flaps extended to 10 degrees. The pilot noted that the engine appeared to be running normally throughout the initial phase of flight.
Attempting to maintain control and airspeed, the pilot continued flying straight ahead. Despite these efforts, the aircraft lost lift and subsequently mushed downward. It struck trees located approximately one mile beyond the end of the runway.
What happened in the 25 Jun 1991 Cessna 172M accident near Beckley, WV?
An aircraft failed to climb past 100 feet after takeoff, maintaining 70 knots with flaps down. The plane subsequently mushed into trees approximately one mile beyond the runway end.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 25 Jun 1991 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N20430, at Beckley, WV.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO ATTAIN ADEQUATE FLYING SPEED.
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