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Casualties unknown

Pilot Stalls Airplane During Approach After Fuel Indication (N12857)

Turlock, CA, US

On May 29, 1993, a Cessna 172M (registration N12857) operated by Sacramento Aero Club was involved in an aviation accident near Turlock, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot failed to maintain adequate airspeed, resulting in an inadvertent stall. 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

While at cruise, the pilot observed both fuel gauges indicating nearly empty. After two high approaches, the pilot stalled during a base leg turn.

Incident Overview

During cruise flight, the pilot noted that both fuel gauges indicated nearly empty. In response, the pilot diverted to the closest airport to refuel.

Sequence of Events

Upon arrival at the airport, the pilot executed two approaches, but both were too high. The pilot then reentered the traffic pattern and began the descent while on the downwind leg at midfield. While turning onto the base leg, the pilot failed to maintain adequate airspeed and inadvertently stalled the airplane.

Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the turn onto the base leg resulted in an inadvertent stall.

Loss of control in flight

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 May 1993 Cessna 172M accident near Turlock, CA?

While at cruise, the pilot observed both fuel gauges indicating nearly empty. After two high approaches, the pilot stalled during a base leg turn.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 May 1993 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N12857, operated by Sacramento Aero Club, at Turlock, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot failed to maintain adequate airspeed, resulting in an inadvertent stall.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12442. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.