On November 28, 1993, a Cessna 172P (registration N65922) operated by Squadron Two Flying Club, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Panoche, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper approach speed and glide path, and his delayed initiation of a go-around. A factor in the accident was the wind shear condition created by the hills immediately off the departure end of the dirt airstrip. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot reported being high and fast during approach to a ranch airstrip. After initiating a go-around from 100 feet above ground, the aircraft encountered a downdraft, climbed at only 200 fpm, and could not outclimb terrain. The pilot intentionally stalled into trees beyond the airstrip.
Approach
According to the pilot, the approach to the ranch airstrip was high and fast. The airstrip is described as a 2,700-foot long dirt strip.
Go-Around
The pilot stated that when the aircraft was still 100 feet above the ground and about halfway down the airstrip, he initiated a go-around. The go-around was directed toward the hills immediately off the departure end of the runway.
Terrain Encounter
During the go-around, the pilot reported that the aircraft encountered a downdraft and was climbing at only about 200 feet per minute. The aircraft could not outclimb the rising terrain. The pilot said he intentionally stalled the aircraft into the trees about one-half mile beyond the airstrip.
What happened in the 28 Nov 1993 Cessna 172P accident near Panoche, CA?
A pilot reported being high and fast during approach to a ranch airstrip. After initiating a go-around from 100 feet above ground, the aircraft encountered a downdraft, climbed at only 200 fpm, and could not outclimb terrain. The pilot intentionally stalled into trees beyond the airstrip.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 28 Nov 1993 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N65922, operated by Squadron Two Flying Club, Inc., at Panoche, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's improper approach speed and glide path, and his delayed initiation of a go-around. A factor in the accident was the wind shear condition created by the hills immediately off the departure end of the dirt airstrip.
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