Casualties unknown

Wind Gust Causes Go-Around Stall During Landing (N9088G)

Mariposa, CA, US

On September 8, 1995, a Cessna 182N (registration N9088G) operated by Pacific Flight Services, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Mariposa, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed during a go-around following a wind gust, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with the ground. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A gust of wind during the landing flare pushed the aircraft off the runway. The pilot attempted a go-around but encountered a stall warning, leading to a crash and post-crash fire.

What happened

The accident occurred during the final approach and landing phase on Runway 26. As the pilot initiated the landing flare, a sudden gust of wind pushed the aircraft laterally toward one side of the runway. Recognizing the loss of control or alignment, the pilot decided to abort the landing and initiated a go-around procedure by applying full power.

Immediately after advancing the throttle, the stall warning horn activated. The pilot responded by lowering the nose to regain airspeed. However, the aircraft struck the ground while drifting off the runway surface. Following the impact, the occupants were able to evacuate the aircraft before a post-crash fire erupted.

The investigation

The investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the loss of control during the go-around maneuver. Key factors included the wind conditions at the time of landing and the aircraft's response to the sudden power application while in a low-energy state near the ground.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed during a go-around following a wind gust, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with the ground.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04523. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.