Casualties unknown

2004-03-05: Cessna 150F (N3038X) — Harrisonburg, VA

Harrisonburg, VA, US

On March 5, 2004, a Cessna 150F (registration N3038X) was involved in an aviation accident near Harrisonburg, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot encountered a quartering tailwind during approach, resulting in a loss of airspeed, and the airplane stalled during go-around at low altitude, from which recovery was not possible. 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 pilot encountered a quartering tailwind on approach, leading to a loss of airspeed and a stall during go-around at low altitude. The airplane descended and came to rest inverted.

Approach and Conditions

The pilot conducted an approach to runway 30, a 1,700-foot long grass airstrip that sloped upwards to a crest at the midpoint. Rising terrain and trees were located prior to and beyond the airstrip. The airstrip was equipped with a windsock.

Loss of Airspeed and Go-Around

During the approach, the airplane encountered a quartering tailwind, which resulted in a loss of airspeed. The pilot initiated a go-around; however, the airplane stalled at a low altitude, which he could not recover from.

Descent and Resting Position

The airplane descended to the ground and came to rest inverted.

Post-Accident Report

The pilot reported after the accident that the winds were from the south at 20 knots, gusting to 30 knots. The pilot did not report encountering any abnormalities with the engine or airframe during the flight.

Probable cause

The pilot encountered a quartering tailwind during approach, resulting in a loss of airspeed, and the airplane stalled during go-around at low altitude, from which recovery was not possible.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040319X00346. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.