No fatalities

Go-Around Attempt Followed by Runway Excursion After Full Flap Retraction (N30258)

Nampa, ID, US

On August 17, 1991, a Cessna 177 (registration N30258) operated by David A. Wagner was involved in an aviation accident near Nampa, ID. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S DELAY IN INITIATING A GO-AROUND (ABORTED LANDING) AND HIS IMPROPER RAISING OF THE FLAPS. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: THE HIGH DENSITY ALTITUDE, TAILWIND, AND THE PILOT'S SELECTION OF THE WRONG RUNWAY. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a go-around, a pilot retracted flaps fully at once instead of gradually, causing the aircraft to settle back onto the runway. Insufficient runway remained to stop, and the aircraft continued off the end, striking a perimeter fence.

Approach and Go-Around

A pilot entered a traffic pattern to land on runway 29, despite the wind being from 060 degrees at 8 knots. At the same time, another aircraft was in a pattern to land on runway 11. On approach with full flaps, the pilot reported excessive airspeed and decided to execute a go-around.

Flap Retraction and Descent

Instead of retracting the flaps gradually, the pilot retracted them all at once and attempted to climb. The aircraft did not climb but instead settled back onto the runway. By that time, the remaining runway length was insufficient to bring the aircraft to a stop.

Runway Excursion

The aircraft continued off the end of the runway and struck the perimeter fence. The density altitude at the airport was reported to be approximately 5,000 feet.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Aug 1991 Cessna 177 accident near Nampa, ID?

During a go-around, a pilot retracted flaps fully at once instead of gradually, causing the aircraft to settle back onto the runway. Insufficient runway remained to stop, and the aircraft continued off the end, striking a perimeter fence.

Were there any fatalities in the 17 Aug 1991 Cessna 177 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Aug 1991 involved a Cessna 177, registration N30258, operated by David A. Wagner, at Nampa, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S DELAY IN INITIATING A GO-AROUND (ABORTED LANDING) AND HIS IMPROPER RAISING OF THE FLAPS. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: THE HIGH DENSITY ALTITUDE, TAILWIND, AND THE PILOT'S SELECTION OF THE WRONG RUNWAY.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X17990. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.