On September 10, 2002, a Cessna 172P (registration N62602) operated by Benjamin N. Blankenship was involved in an aviation accident near Mocksville, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed during the takeoff and initial climb which resulted in an inadvertent stall and the subsequent collision with trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a touch and go landing, the airplane touched down two-thirds down the runway. On climbout, a nose-high attitude and right descending roll led to tree collision.
Accident Overview
A pilot conducting touch and go landings experienced an accident during the go-around phase of the maneuver. The airplane touched down approximately two-thirds down the runway before initiating the go-around.
Sequence of Events
On the go-around, the pilot established a nose-high attitude. This was followed by a right descending roll, which resulted in the airplane colliding with trees. After the collision, the airplane came to rest on the ground in a nose-low attitude.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported no mechanical problems with the airplane prior to the accident.
What happened in the 10 Sept 2002 Cessna 172P accident near Mocksville, NC?
During a touch and go landing, the airplane touched down two-thirds down the runway. On climbout, a nose-high attitude and right descending roll led to tree collision.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Sept 2002 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N62602, operated by Benjamin N. Blankenship, at Mocksville, NC.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed during the takeoff and initial climb which resulted in an inadvertent stall and the subsequent collision with trees.
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