Casualties unknown

Stall Warning Precedes Collision with Snow-Covered Tundra During Turn to Final (N38393)

Napakiak, AK, US

On December 3, 1993, a Piper PA-32 (registration N38393) was involved in an aviation accident near Napakiak, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN PROPER APPROACH AIRSPEED. 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.

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

A pilot reported that during a left banking turn from base to final with full flaps, the stall warning horn activated. The airplane collided with snow-covered tundra 300 feet short of the runway.

Event Description

While turning from base leg to final approach with a 20-degree left bank and full flaps deployed, the stall warning horn activated. The pilot observed an indicated airspeed between 50 and 55 knots and an altitude of 50 to 100 feet above the ground. In response, the pilot applied full power and maintained a nose-down attitude in an attempt to increase airspeed. The airplane subsequently collided with snow-covered tundra approximately 300 feet short of the runway.

Pilot Actions

The pilot stated that upon hearing the stall warning, he immediately advanced the throttle to full power and kept the airplane's nose down to regain airspeed. Despite these efforts, the aircraft was unable to reach the runway before contacting the ground.

Context

The event occurred during a turn from base leg to final approach. The landing gear and flaps were configured for landing, with full flaps selected. The terrain at the accident site consisted of snow-covered tundra. No further details about the aircraft, pilot, or environmental conditions were provided in the source.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Dec 1993 Piper PA-32 accident near Napakiak, AK?

A pilot reported that during a left banking turn from base to final with full flaps, the stall warning horn activated. The airplane collided with snow-covered tundra 300 feet short of the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Dec 1993 involved a Piper PA-32, registration N38393, at Napakiak, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN PROPER APPROACH AIRSPEED.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X13809. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.