On February 16, 1994, a Cessna 172K (registration N79401) was involved in an aviation accident near Culebra, PR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND(CFI) TO INITIATE A GO-AROUND AFTER ENCOUNTERING SEVERE TURBULENCE DURING LANDING FLARE AND HIS DECISION TO RAISE THE FLAPS AND REDUCE ENGINE POWER TO IDLE AFTER DIRECTIONAL CONTROL WAS LOST RESULTING IN THE AIRCRAFT… This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a night downwind landing into rising terrain, the pilot-in-command (CFI) encountered severe turbulence twice, lost directional control, veered over buildings and wires, and crashed into a house.
Accident Details
A pilot-in-command (a certified flight instructor) was flying the aircraft while performing a downwind landing into rising terrain at night. As the aircraft flared for landing, it encountered severe turbulence. Control was regained and another landing flare was initiated. The aircraft again encountered severe turbulence and directional control was lost. The aircraft veered to the left over buildings and electrical wires and crashed into a house.
Pilot Actions
As the aircraft veered out of control, the pilot-in-command raised the flaps and reduced the throttle to the idle position.
Aircraft Damage
The aircraft sustained damage from impacting a house. No information is available regarding injuries or fatalities.
Investigation
The investigation is ongoing. No probable cause has been stated.
What happened in the 16 Feb 1994 Cessna 172K accident near Culebra, PR?
During a night downwind landing into rising terrain, the pilot-in-command (CFI) encountered severe turbulence twice, lost directional control, veered over buildings and wires, and crashed into a house.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 Feb 1994 involved a Cessna 172K, registration N79401, at Culebra, PR.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND(CFI) TO INITIATE A GO-AROUND AFTER ENCOUNTERING SEVERE TURBULENCE DURING LANDING FLARE AND HIS DECISION TO RAISE THE FLAPS AND REDUCE ENGINE POWER TO IDLE AFTER DIRECTIONAL CONTROL WAS LOST RESULTING IN THE AIRCRAFT COLLIDING WITH A HOUSE.
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