Casualties unknown

Pilot Crashes After Two Unstable Approaches and Go-Around at Single-Runway Airport (N429HD)

Troy, MI, US

On June 17, 1992, a Piper PA-28-180D (registration N429HD) operated by Richard E. Mason was involved in an aviation accident near Troy, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE. 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 on a cross-country flight crashed after two unstable approaches and a go-around. Winds were 180 at 22 knots gusting 32. Full flaps were selected despite manual recommending partial or no flaps for strong crosswinds.

Accident Overview

A pilot on a cross-country flight experienced an accident after attempting to land at an airport with only one runway orientation (09/27). Weather conditions included winds from 180 degrees at 22 knots, gusting to 32 knots.

Approach History

Witnesses observed the first approach to Runway 27 as slow and unstable, leading to a go-around. The second approach, to Runway 09, was also described as slow and unstable. When the aircraft reached approximately 100 feet above ground level, the pilot initiated another go-around and began a turn to the north.

Final Moments

During the turn, witnesses reported that the bank angle increased progressively until the airplane was nearly inverted and pointing toward the ground. The aircraft subsequently crashed in an industrial area adjacent to the airport.

Investigation Findings

Post-accident investigation revealed that the full flaps setting had been selected. The owner's manual for the airplane recommends using partial or no flaps for landing in strong crosswind conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Jun 1992 Piper PA-28-180D accident near Troy, MI?

A pilot on a cross-country flight crashed after two unstable approaches and a go-around. Winds were 180 at 22 knots gusting 32. Full flaps were selected despite manual recommending partial or no flaps for strong crosswinds.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Jun 1992 involved a Piper PA-28-180D, registration N429HD, operated by Richard E. Mason, at Troy, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14800. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.