Casualties unknown

1997-01-26: Piper PA-38-112 (N2422N) — Southwind Aviation — Brownsville, TX

Brownsville, TX, US

On January 26, 1997, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N2422N) operated by Southwind Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Brownsville, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's delayed go-around and subsequent inadvertent stall. A factor was the gusty winds. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A student pilot on final approach to runway 17 experienced an unexpected descent and attempted a go-around, during which the left wing struck the ground and the aircraft spun before coming to rest.

Incident Details

A student pilot, who was aware of a displaced threshold (2,600 feet) on runway 17, was cleared for landing. During the final approach with full flaps (37 degrees), the airplane began to drop from approximately 100 feet above ground level (AGL). The pilot added half throttle, but the added power did not stop the descent. Upon deciding to execute a go-around, the pilot applied full power and retracted the flaps to 21 degrees. Immediately after, the left wing of the airplane struck the dirt, causing the aircraft to spin about 150 degrees before coming to rest in the grass adjacent to the runway.

Pilot Background

The operator reported that the student had received instruction on all solo requirements, including emergency procedures and go-around procedures. The student stated that he had never performed a go-around with an instructor; however, during a previous solo flight, he had conducted a go-around from 400 feet AGL on approach to runway 31. The student noted that this was his first attempt at a go-around from a low altitude.

Aircraft Damage and Report

According to the Pilot/Operator Report, the aircraft stalled while attempting the go-around, with the left wing impacting the ground.

Weather Conditions

At the time of the incident, winds were from 160° to 170° at 13 knots, gusting to 22 knots.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07293. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.