Casualties unknown

Pilot loses control during go-around following bounced landing (N75778)

Puyallup, WA, US

On April 13, 1999, a Cessna 172N (registration N75778) was involved in an aviation accident near Puyallup, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a go-around, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall and subsequent loss of control. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot attempted a go-around after a bounced touchdown, but the aircraft stalled and impacted the ground, resulting in substantial structural damage to the airframe.

What happened

The pilot reported that upon initial touchdown, the aircraft experienced a bounce. Rather than continuing the landing roll, the pilot elected to initiate a go-around procedure. The aircraft momentarily became airborne again but began to roll to the left. The pilot attempted to correct the wing-low attitude, but the stall warning horn activated. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft collided with the ground.

The investigation

Post-accident examination revealed that the nose gear had been sheared off. There was extensive damage to both wings. No mechanical malfunctions or failures were reported with the aircraft prior to the incident.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a go-around, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall and subsequent loss of control.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Apr 1999 Cessna 172N accident near Puyallup, WA?

A pilot attempted a go-around after a bounced touchdown, but the aircraft stalled and impacted the ground, resulting in substantial structural damage to the airframe.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Apr 1999 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N75778, at Puyallup, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a go-around, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall and subsequent loss of control.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001205X00563. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.