Casualties unknown

Aircraft Crashes After Go-Around at Private Grass Airfield (N13738)

Harvest, AL, US

On July 28, 1993, a Cessna 172M (registration N13738) was involved in an aviation accident near Harvest, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S POORLY PLANNED APPROACH AND THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO EXECUTE A GO-AROUND. 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 attempted a landing at a private grass airfield. After touchdown, the aircraft porpoised, prompting a go-around. The aircraft crashed into terrain about a quarter mile from the departure end of the runway.

Accident Summary

A pilot reported that during an attempted landing at a private grass airfield, the aircraft began to porpoise after touchdown. The pilot subsequently executed a go-around. The aircraft then crashed into terrain approximately one-quarter mile from the departure end of the runway.

Witness Account

A witness observed the aircraft during the attempted landing and go-around. According to the witness, the approach was so high and steep that they initially believed the aircraft was going to make a low pass and circle to land. The witness stated that the aircraft touched down on the last third of the grass runway, and the tires skidded on the grass momentarily. The engine then sounded as if it went to full power, and the aircraft became airborne. The nose rose slightly, the aircraft banked to the left, and it impacted the terrain in a nose-down attitude.

Investigation

The investigation is ongoing. No probable cause has been stated.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Jul 1993 Cessna 172M accident near Harvest, AL?

A pilot attempted a landing at a private grass airfield. After touchdown, the aircraft porpoised, prompting a go-around. The aircraft crashed into terrain about a quarter mile from the departure end of the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Jul 1993 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N13738, at Harvest, AL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S POORLY PLANNED APPROACH AND THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO EXECUTE A GO-AROUND.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12762. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.