Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Downdraft During Approach, Aircraft Collides with Ridge During Go-Around (N737EA)

Sedona, AZ, US

On January 24, 1993, a Cessna 172N (registration N737EA) operated by Action Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Sedona, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOTS INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR THE EXISTING WIND CONDITIONS AND HIS DELAY IN EXECUTING A GO AROUND. A FACTOR IN THE ACCIDENT WAS THE PILOT'S LACK OF TOTAL EXPERIENCE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a straight-in approach to Runway 3 in gusty winds, the pilot encountered a downdraft, executed a go-around, but the aircraft struck a ridge 50 yards southeast of the runway.

Approach and Incident

During a straight-in approach to Runway 3, the pilot reported winds from 030 degrees at 20 knots with gusts to 25 knots. The pilot stated that a downdraft became apparent during the approach. He continued the approach and added power until the aircraft dropped below the glide slope, at which point full power was applied and go-around procedures were immediately executed. The pilot noted that he turned in an attempt to clear a ridge, but the aircraft continued to sink and collided with the ridge about 50 yards southeast of the runway.

Terrain Description

The airport is situated in a valley and was constructed by grading off the top of a hill or ridge. The terrain drops away from the runway on all sides.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Jan 1993 Cessna 172N accident near Sedona, AZ?

During a straight-in approach to Runway 3 in gusty winds, the pilot encountered a downdraft, executed a go-around, but the aircraft struck a ridge 50 yards southeast of the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Jan 1993 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N737EA, operated by Action Aviation, at Sedona, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOTS INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR THE EXISTING WIND CONDITIONS AND HIS DELAY IN EXECUTING A GO AROUND. A FACTOR IN THE ACCIDENT WAS THE PILOT'S LACK OF TOTAL EXPERIENCE.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11721. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.