FlightFinder
Check my flight
Casualties unknown

Accident During Go-Around from Simulated Forced Landing (N34168)

Santa Maria, CA, US

On May 2, 2001, a Cessna 177B (registration N34168) was involved in an aviation accident near Santa Maria, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A stall/mush inadvertently encountered by the pilot-in-command. Failure to maintain adequate airspeed for flight and inadequate remedial action 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane struck a pipe, cartwheeled, and came to rest inverted after a go-around from a simulated forced landing. The pilot reported practicing engine-out patterns and stated it felt like the elevator stalled.

Accident Sequence

The airplane struck a pipe, cartwheeled, and came to rest inverted following a go-around from a simulated forced landing, according to the pilot's report.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that he had been taking photographs at an altitude of about 1,000 feet above ground level. Subsequently, he decided to practice engine-out patterns. During the go-around from the second pattern, the pilot added power and retracted the flaps to 20 degrees. Despite these actions, he was unable to prevent contact with the ground. The pilot further stated that it "felt like the elevator stalled."

Aircraft and Injuries

The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, engine count, date, operator, location, number of occupants, or injuries. No information is available regarding weather conditions or ATC involvement.

Additional Remarks

The accident occurred during a practice maneuver. The pilot's description of the event is the sole account provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 May 2001 Cessna 177B accident near Santa Maria, CA?

An airplane struck a pipe, cartwheeled, and came to rest inverted after a go-around from a simulated forced landing. The pilot reported practicing engine-out patterns and stated it felt like the elevator stalled.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 May 2001 involved a Cessna 177B, registration N34168, at Santa Maria, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A stall/mush inadvertently encountered by the pilot-in-command. Failure to maintain adequate airspeed for flight and inadequate remedial action contributed to the accident.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010508X00903. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.