Casualties unknown

Pilot Unable to Maintain Flight After Go-Around (N6561P)

Bowling Green, OH, US

On March 23, 1997, a Piper PA-24-250 (registration N6561P) was involved in an aviation accident near Bowling Green, OH. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper planning/decision, which resulted in airframe ice and the loss of adequate lift to maintain continued flight. The adverse weather (icing) condition was a related factor. 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

While descending for a visual approach after an IMC vector, ice accumulated on flight controls. On final, the pilot initiated a go-around due to an icy runway, but after retracting gear and flaps with full power, the airplane could not maintain flight and landed in a field beyond a highway.

Circumstances

The airplane was vectored in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) for a VOR Runway 18 Approach to the destination airport. The pilot reported the airport in sight and was cleared for a visual approach. During the descent, ice had accumulated on the flight control surfaces, which was visible to the pilot.

Flight Sequence

On final approach to a 2,627-foot runway, the pilot elected to execute a go-around. She initiated the go-around because the runway appeared icy, and she feared she would be unable to stop before encountering a fence and a highway at the departure end. The pilot intended to land on a perpendicular runway after completing the go-around.

Outcome

The landing gear and flaps were retracted, and full power was applied. However, the pilot was unable to maintain flight, and the airplane subsequently landed in a field located beyond the highway.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07617. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.