Accident Sequence
The pilot of a Cessna 172 attempted three landings at an airport. During each approach, the tower provided surface wind information indicating variable wind directions between 160 and 210 degrees, with speeds ranging from 12 to 22 knots and gusts up to 25 knots. The pilot was initially cleared to land on runway 12 but could not maintain alignment with the runway due to the winds and executed a go-around.
Subsequently, the tower cleared the pilot to land on runway 25. The second landing attempt was also unsuccessful, and another go-around was performed. On the third landing, the pilot compensated for the crosswind conditions; however, upon touchdown, the airplane drifted to the right of the centerline. The pilot aborted the landing, applied full power, and rotated at 45 knots. Due to obstructions, he did not lower the nose to gain airspeed. After clearing the obstructions, he turned right and lowered the nose, but the airplane continued to descend. The pilot reported that as the airspeed decreased through 40 knots, he recognized the airplane was about to stall. He did not recall hearing the stall warning horn during the accident sequence.
Witnesses reported seeing the airplane at a low altitude, then observed the right wing drop before the aircraft struck a chain link fence.
Wind Conditions
The wind reported by the tower was variable in direction (160 to 210 degrees) and velocity (12 to 22 knots, with gusts to 25 knots). The maximum factory demonstrated crosswind capability for the Cessna 172 is 15 knots.
Aircraft Examination
An on-scene examination of the airframe and engine found no discrepancies with the engine. Examination of the stall warning horn system revealed that the reed assembly was missing and could not be located at the accident site.