Casualties unknown

Pilot Unable to Climb on Two Runways, Aircraft Stalls and Burns (N7472X)

Shiocton, WI, US

On July 1, 1994, a Cessna 172B (registration N7472X) was involved in an aviation accident near Shiocton, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain Vso during takeoff. Factors related to the accident was the disregard for performance data and trees. 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

After failing to become airborne on runway 36, a pilot attempted takeoff on a shorter grass runway 27 with reported west winds at 23 knots; the aircraft stalled into trees and was destroyed by fire.

Attempted Takeoff on Runway 36

The pilot initially attempted to take off on runway 36, which measured 2,240 feet in length and 100 feet in width. However, the airplane was unable to get airborne during this attempt.

Decision to Use Runway 27

Following the unsuccessful takeoff on runway 36, the pilot elected to attempt departure from runway 27. This runway was shorter, with dimensions of 1,350 feet by 90 feet, and its surface was grass.

Wind Conditions and Stalling

The pilot reported that local winds were from the west at 23 knots. While taking off from runway 27, the airplane stalled and subsequently impacted a wooded area located just west of the airstrip.

Post-Impact Fire

After the stall and collision with the trees, the airplane was destroyed by fire.

Occupants and Fuel

At the time of the accident, the airplane was carrying four occupants. The fuel tanks were half full.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Jul 1994 Cessna 172B accident near Shiocton, WI?

After failing to become airborne on runway 36, a pilot attempted takeoff on a shorter grass runway 27 with reported west winds at 23 knots; the aircraft stalled into trees and was destroyed by fire.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Jul 1994 involved a Cessna 172B, registration N7472X, at Shiocton, WI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain Vso during takeoff. Factors related to the accident was the disregard for performance data and trees.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01685. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.