Casualties unknown

Loss of Control During Short Field Takeoff Attempt (N9987V)

Brooksville, FL, US

On February 20, 1997, a Cessna 172M (registration N9987V) operated by Michael Donahue was involved in an aviation accident near Brooksville, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: inadequate supervision by the flight instructor (CFI), and his failure to ensure that adequate airspeed was obtained/maintained, which resulted in a stall and collision with the ground. The crosswind was a related factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a maximum performance takeoff, the airplane stalled after reaching 30 feet. The CFI took control but the airplane continued descending and turning left in a crosswind.

Incident Description

A flight instructor (CFI) was conducting a maximum performance or short field takeoff. During the takeoff, the airplane lifted off at the power-on stall speed of 35 knots and climbed to approximately 30 feet above the ground. At that altitude, the airplane began to mush, and the CFI took over the controls. Despite maintaining full power, the airplane continued to descend and slowly turned to the left.

Observations and Wind Conditions

A witness reported that the airplane stalled and drifted left, attributing the movement to a strong crosswind. The CFI stated that the wind was from about 120 degrees at 10 knots. In contrast, rescue personnel at the scene noted that the wind was from the south.

Investigation Notes

No probable cause was provided in the investigation source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Feb 1997 Cessna 172M accident near Brooksville, FL?

During a maximum performance takeoff, the airplane stalled after reaching 30 feet. The CFI took control but the airplane continued descending and turning left in a crosswind.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Feb 1997 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N9987V, operated by Michael Donahue, at Brooksville, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

inadequate supervision by the flight instructor (CFI), and his failure to ensure that adequate airspeed was obtained/maintained, which resulted in a stall and collision with the ground. The crosswind was a related factor.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07381. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.