Casualties unknown

2001-02-09: Beech A36 (N3191A) — Palo Alto, CA

Palo Alto, CA, US

On February 9, 2001, a Beech A36 (registration N3191A) was involved in an aviation accident near Palo Alto, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot-in-command's delayed decision to go-around and his failure to maintain sufficient airspeed during the attempted go-around. His non-verification of the flap setting contributed to the accident. 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

During a first solo flight, a pilot attempted a go-around after sensing excessive descent rate on short final. The airplane drifted left, rolled right, and struck the ground with the right wing.

Accident Description

A pilot on his first solo flight in the airplane lost control during an attempted go-around, resulting in the right wing striking the ground. The airplane subsequently came to rest on the runway.

Pilot Experience and Flight Purpose

The pilot had accumulated 107.9 hours of dual instruction prior to the flight. The purpose of the flight was to practice takeoffs and landings.

Sequence of Events

While on the downwind leg, the pilot selected approach flaps but did not verify their position. On short final, the pilot perceived an excessive descent rate and initiated a go-around. During the go-around, the airplane drifted to the left, then rolled to the right while continuing to descend until it impacted the ground.

Postcrash Examination

Postcrash examination of the engine and propeller revealed impact damage consistent with the propeller contacting the ground at a high airplane pitch attitude. The propeller blade angle was consistent with a "power on" condition.

Conclusion

The accident involved a loss of control during a go-around maneuver on the pilot's first solo flight. The specific factors leading to the loss of control were not identified in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010221X00487. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.