Casualties unknown

2000-07-11: Cessna 337C (N2574S) — Chesapeake, VA

Chesapeake, VA, US

On July 11, 2000, a Cessna 337C (registration N2574S) was involved in an aviation accident near Chesapeake, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to follow the published go-around procedure. Factors were the pilot's improper evaluation of the wind conditions, and a tailwind. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A non-instrument rated pilot diverted due to low clouds and precipitation. During landing, he encountered a tailwind, stall warning, and fully retracted flaps. The aircraft contacted the runway and exited the right side.

Flight Diversion

A non-instrument rated pilot observed precipitation and low clouds along the planned route of flight and decided to divert to an alternate airport.

Landing and Go-Around Attempt

While landing at the diverted airport, the pilot noted varying winds. He experienced a tailwind and heard the stall warning horn activate. In response, he added power and completely retracted the flaps with the intention of performing a go-around. However, the airplane contacted the runway and departed the right side.

Weather Conditions

At the time of the accident, reported winds indicated a tailwind of 10 knots, gusting to 14 knots. Weather reports from up to one hour prior to the accident also showed a tailwind for that particular runway.

Aircraft Handbook Guidance

Review of the make and model airplane handbook revealed that during a go-around, pilots should partially retract the flaps first, establish an airspeed of 80 knots, and then slowly retract the remaining flaps.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21582. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.