Aircraft impacts trees during go-around attempt

Casualties unknown • Albany, OH, US

A pilot attempting a touch-and-go landing struck the tops of trees after the aircraft experienced unstable flight characteristics following touchdown.

What happened

Following a previous flight and subsequent refueling, the pilot operated the Cessna 150 as pilot-in-command from the rear seat, while a pilot-rated passenger occupied the front seat. The pilot reported that the initial takeoff and climb were normal. Upon entering the traffic pattern for a touch-and-go landing, the pilot applied carburetor heat while mid-field on the downwind leg.

As the aircraft approached the runway, the passenger observed the airplane drifting to the right. Immediately after touchdown, the aircraft swerved to the left. The plane continued to swerve back and forth several times before the pilot applied power in an attempt to execute a go-around. During this climb, the passenger noted that the airspeed seemed extremely slow and the rate of climb was not normal. Ultimately, the airplane impacted the tops of trees during the climbing phase.

There were no injuries reported in the accident.

Probable cause

The pilot's attempt to perform a go-around after the aircraft experienced unstable flight following the application of carburetor heat.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-12-28 Piper J-3C-65 accident near Albany, OH?

A pilot attempting a touch-and-go landing struck the tops of trees after the aircraft experienced unstable flight characteristics following touchdown.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-12-28 involved a Piper J-3C-65, registration N1469N, operated by John A. Swart, at Albany, OH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's attempt to perform a go-around after the aircraft experienced unstable flight following the application of carburetor heat.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X09369. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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