On June 22, 1997, a Cessna 172M (registration N4491R) operated by William P. Kuehnel was involved in an aviation accident near Grosse Ile, MI. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the instructor pilot's inadequate planning/decision, resulting in an inadvertent stall situation. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a slow flight demonstration in ground effect over a runway, an instructor lost control when the left wing dipped, resulting in wing tip and gear contact with the runway and substantial aircraft damage.
Incident Summary
A flight instructor (CFI) was conducting a slow flight demonstration for a student pilot while flying in ground effect over a runway. The aircraft sustained substantial damage when the left wing tip and main gear contacted the runway surface.
Sequence of Events
According to the instructor's statement, the demonstration involved flying at a low airspeed with the flaps fully extended to 40 degrees and power set just enough to maintain flying speed. The airplane was at an altitude of approximately 5 feet above ground level (AGL) when the left wing dipped. Subsequently, the left wing tip and main gear struck the runway, causing substantial damage to the aircraft.
Pilot's Account
The instructor stated that his intent was to show the student that the airplane would remain controllable while flying at a slow airspeed in ground effect. He added that during the maneuver, he let the airplane get away from him.
What happened in the 22 Jun 1997 Cessna 172M accident near Grosse Ile, MI?
During a slow flight demonstration in ground effect over a runway, an instructor lost control when the left wing dipped, resulting in wing tip and gear contact with the runway and substantial aircraft damage.
Were there any fatalities in the 22 Jun 1997 Cessna 172M accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Jun 1997 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N4491R, operated by William P. Kuehnel, at Grosse Ile, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the instructor pilot's inadequate planning/decision, resulting in an inadvertent stall situation.
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