On September 20, 1992, a Cessna 152 (registration N4591P) operated by Legends, R.e. & J.k. Brown was involved in an aviation accident near Ottawa, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: PILOT DID NOT MAINTAIN A PROPER AIRSPEED WHICH LED TO AN INADVERTENT STALL/SPIN AT A LOW ALTITUDE WHERE THE PILOT COULD NOT PERFORM A RECOVERY. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An airplane stalled and spun to the ground after takeoff while maneuvering to land on the opposite runway. Investigation revealed incorrect wing flow fence height, a partial magneto failure, and the pilot's habit of performing wing-level rudder turns.
Accident Details
Shortly after takeoff, an airplane was observed turning as if to return for landing. A witness reported seeing the airplane maneuvering to line up for a landing on the runway opposite its takeoff runway. The witness stated that the airplane's wings were level and it was moving sideways. The airplane then stalled and spun to the ground.
Investigation Findings
On-scene investigation revealed that the landing flaps were fully extended. The airplane was equipped with an FAA-approved short takeoff or landing (STOL) wing modification. The height of the wing flow fences was found to be incorrect according to the STC drawings. An FAA test pilot stated that he had required that the flow fences be lowered due to aerodynamic instabilities with fences too high. Other similar airplanes were found with the wing flow fences too high.
Investigation into the pilot's flying habits revealed that he often performed wing-level rudder turns. The investigation also revealed a partial magneto failure which would have resulted in a partial loss of engine power.
What happened in the 20 Sept 1992 Cessna 152 accident near Ottawa, IL?
An airplane stalled and spun to the ground after takeoff while maneuvering to land on the opposite runway. Investigation revealed incorrect wing flow fence height, a partial magneto failure, and the pilot's habit of performing wing-level rudder turns.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Sept 1992 involved a Cessna 152, registration N4591P, operated by Legends, R.e. & J.k. Brown, at Ottawa, IL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
PILOT DID NOT MAINTAIN A PROPER AIRSPEED WHICH LED TO AN INADVERTENT STALL/SPIN AT A LOW ALTITUDE WHERE THE PILOT COULD NOT PERFORM A RECOVERY.
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