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Stall During Simulated Engine Failure Results in Tree Strike During Touch-and-Go Practice (N89044)

Danbury, CT, US

On August 5, 2002, a Cessna 152 (registration N89044) was involved in an aviation accident near Danbury, CT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student pilot's failure to maintain airspeed and the flight instructor's delayed remedial action, which resulted in an inadvertent stall during a simulated forced landing. A factor was the rising terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a training flight, a student pilot performing touch-and-go landings experienced a stall after the instructor reduced engine power to idle to simulate an engine failure. The aircraft struck trees approximately half a mile from the runway.

Incident Overview

A student pilot was conducting touch-and-go landings in the traffic pattern under the supervision of a certified flight instructor (CFI). During the flight, the CFI reduced the engine power to idle to simulate an engine failure. While the student pilot maneuvered the aircraft, it stalled to the left.

Sequence of Events

The CFI assumed control of the airplane after the stall developed. Despite the instructor's intervention, the aircraft struck trees located about half a mile from the runway. The CFI reported that the stall warning horn did not sound at any point during the accident sequence.

Post-Accident Examination

Subsequent examination of the airplane revealed no mechanical malfunctions. The stall warning system was tested after the accident and was found to function normally. The terrain at the accident site sloped upward.

Aerodynamic stall

Related events

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Aug 2002 Cessna 152 accident near Danbury, CT?

During a training flight, a student pilot performing touch-and-go landings experienced a stall after the instructor reduced engine power to idle to simulate an engine failure. The aircraft struck trees approximately half a mile from the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Aug 2002 involved a Cessna 152, registration N89044, at Danbury, CT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The student pilot's failure to maintain airspeed and the flight instructor's delayed remedial action, which resulted in an inadvertent stall during a simulated forced landing. A factor was the rising terrain.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020816X01410. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.