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Aerial Application Airplane Experiences Descent and Collision with Terrain (N9849V)

Meade, KS, US

On April 8, 1995, a Cessna 188 (registration N9849V) was involved in an aviation accident near Meade, KS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot taking off the airplane at a low liftoff speed (Vlo). A factor associated with the accident was a stall/mush encountered by the pilot. 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

An aerial application airplane rotated at 60-65 mph, accelerated to 85 mph in climb, then after flap retraction stopped climbing and descended rapidly despite full throttle and propeller control. No mechanical anomalies were found.

Accident Sequence

The pilot of an aerial application airplane reported that during takeoff, he rotated the airplane at an airspeed between 60 and 65 miles per hour (mph). After rotation, the airplane accelerated to 85 mph while in a climb. The pilot then retracted one notch of flaps. Shortly after this action, the airplane ceased climbing and began descending at a high rate. During the descent, the airspeed decreased to 60 mph despite the throttle and propeller controls being set to their full forward positions. The high descent rate continued until the airplane collided with the ground.

Investigation Findings

An on-scene investigation of the accident site revealed no pre-impact mechanical anomalies with the engine or airframe. The airplane's systems appeared to have been functioning normally prior to impact.

Pilot Operating Handbook

The pilot's operating handbook specified that the liftoff speed for the airplane was 65 mph.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Apr 1995 Cessna 188 accident near Meade, KS?

An aerial application airplane rotated at 60-65 mph, accelerated to 85 mph in climb, then after flap retraction stopped climbing and descended rapidly despite full throttle and propeller control. No mechanical anomalies were found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Apr 1995 involved a Cessna 188, registration N9849V, at Meade, KS.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot taking off the airplane at a low liftoff speed (Vlo). A factor associated with the accident was a stall/mush encountered by the pilot.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03259. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.