On July 24, 1991, a Cessna 172M (registration N85HC) operated by Leo A Pratt was involved in an aviation accident near Phillips, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: AN INADVERTENT STALL AND LOSS OF CONTROL DUE TO THE PILOT'S IMPROPER USE OF THE WING FLAPS FOR TAKEOFF. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: THE PILOT'S MISUNDERSTANDING OF AIRPLANE PERFORMANCE, AND THE PILOT'S DECISION TO TAKEOFF UPHILL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot used 30-degree flaps for takeoff in a Cessna 172M, exceeding the manual's 10-degree recommendation, resulting in a stall and collision with terrain after encountering rising ground.
Accident Details
During takeoff from an uphill runway with a headwind, the pilot set the wing flaps to 30 degrees. The aircraft was loaded at or near its maximum gross weight. After departure, the airplane encountered rising terrain off the end of the runway that exceeded its climb capability. The aircraft stalled and subsequently struck the ground.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-accident inspection revealed that the wing flaps were actually extended to 35 degrees at the time of impact. The pilot reported no engine malfunctions and stated that he had selected the 30-degree flap setting to achieve a shorter takeoff roll. According to the Cessna 172M Owner's Manual, flap settings greater than 10 degrees are not recommended for takeoff.
Pilot Statement
In an interview, the pilot confirmed that the engine operated normally throughout the flight. He explained his decision to use the 30-degree flap setting was intended to get airborne more quickly.
What happened in the 24 Jul 1991 Cessna 172M accident near Phillips, ME?
A pilot used 30-degree flaps for takeoff in a Cessna 172M, exceeding the manual's 10-degree recommendation, resulting in a stall and collision with terrain after encountering rising ground.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Jul 1991 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N85HC, operated by Leo A Pratt, at Phillips, ME.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
AN INADVERTENT STALL AND LOSS OF CONTROL DUE TO THE PILOT'S IMPROPER USE OF THE WING FLAPS FOR TAKEOFF. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: THE PILOT'S MISUNDERSTANDING OF AIRPLANE PERFORMANCE, AND THE PILOT'S DECISION TO TAKEOFF UPHILL.
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