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Wind Shear During Go-Around Leads to Tree Collision in Training Flight (N19735)

Bethel, ME, US

On November 22, 1994, a Cessna 172L (registration N19735) was involved in an aviation accident near Bethel, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the flight instructor's failure to ensure adequate control of the airplane during a go-around. The gusty wind conditions were contributing factors. 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

During a dual instructional flight, a practice forced landing was interrupted by a strong gust of wind. The CFI initiated a go-around, but the airplane struck trees off the left side of the runway.

Incident Overview

A certified flight instructor (CFI) and a student pilot were conducting a dual instructional flight when the CFI initiated a practice forced landing. According to the CFI, the student pilot selected 30 degrees of flaps and made correct actions to counteract a left crosswind while on final approach to the runway.

Sequence of Events

As the airplane approached the runway, the CFI reported that prior to touchdown of the left main wheel, they experienced a very strong gust of wind from the right, which was almost a 180-degree wind shear. The CFI took control of the airplane, added power, and raised the wing flaps to execute a go-around. During the go-around maneuver, the airplane collided with trees located off the left side of the runway.

Conclusion

No further details about the aircraft, occupants, or damage were provided in the report. The incident occurred during a routine training exercise intended to simulate an engine failure scenario.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Nov 1994 Cessna 172L accident near Bethel, ME?

During a dual instructional flight, a practice forced landing was interrupted by a strong gust of wind. The CFI initiated a go-around, but the airplane struck trees off the left side of the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Nov 1994 involved a Cessna 172L, registration N19735, at Bethel, ME.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the flight instructor's failure to ensure adequate control of the airplane during a go-around. The gusty wind conditions were contributing factors.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X02560. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.