Casualties unknown

Aircraft Stalls and Strikes Ground Shortly After Takeoff (N4695K)

Milton, DE, US

On May 11, 1992, a Cessna 172XP (registration N4695K) operated by Richard Stevens was involved in an aviation accident near Milton, DE. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO ATTAIN ADEQUATE AIRSPEED FOR CLIMB. 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

A pilot reported that shortly after takeoff, the nose kept rising, triggering a stall warning. The airplane stalled, rolled left, and struck the ground nose-first, coming to rest upright at the runway end. No mechanical issues were reported.

Accident Overview

According to the pilot, shortly after takeoff, the nose of the airplane exhibited a tendency to rise. The stall warning horn activated, and soon thereafter, the airplane stalled and rolled to the left. The pilot attempted to regain control but lacked sufficient altitude.

Final Descent and Impact

The airplane subsequently contacted the ground in a nose-first attitude and came to rest upright at the end of the runway.

Investigation Findings

Investigators were unable to determine the elevator trim position during the investigation. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions with the airplane.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 May 1992 Cessna 172XP accident near Milton, DE?

A pilot reported that shortly after takeoff, the nose kept rising, triggering a stall warning. The airplane stalled, rolled left, and struck the ground nose-first, coming to rest upright at the runway end. No mechanical issues were reported.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 May 1992 involved a Cessna 172XP, registration N4695K, operated by Richard Stevens, at Milton, DE.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO ATTAIN ADEQUATE AIRSPEED FOR CLIMB.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14586. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.