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Student Solo Flight Ends in Go-Around Accident After Wing Strike (N3165B)

Afton, WY, US

On July 17, 1995, a Cessna 170B (registration N3165B) was involved in an aviation accident near Afton, WY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: DIRECTIONAL CONTROL WAS NOT MAINTAINED. FACTORS TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: INADEQUATE REMEDIAL ACTION AND A STALL NOT IDENTIFIED. 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 student solo flight practicing touch-and-go landings, the pilot initiated a go-around after a high approach and float. Upon adding full power, the airplane drifted left, the left wing struck the ground and a fence post, leading to a semi-cartwheel.

Accident Details

A student pilot was conducting a solo flight and entered the traffic pattern to practice touch-and-go landings. According to the pilot's statement, the approach was slightly high, and the airplane floated over the runway, causing an increase in the angle of attack. The pilot decided to execute a go-around.

Sequence of Events

When full power was applied for the go-around, the airplane began to drift to the left. The left wing dropped and made contact with the ground, subsequently striking a fence post. The impact caused the airplane to semi-cartwheel before coming to a stop.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported no other issues leading up to the event. The flight was a solo training session, and the pilot was practicing landing procedures at the time of the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Jul 1995 Cessna 170B accident near Afton, WY?

During a student solo flight practicing touch-and-go landings, the pilot initiated a go-around after a high approach and float. Upon adding full power, the airplane drifted left, the left wing struck the ground and a fence post, leading to a semi-cartwheel.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Jul 1995 involved a Cessna 170B, registration N3165B, at Afton, WY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

DIRECTIONAL CONTROL WAS NOT MAINTAINED. FACTORS TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: INADEQUATE REMEDIAL ACTION AND A STALL NOT IDENTIFIED.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04094. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.