Casualties unknown

2004-04-03: Cessna 177 (N88BM) — Edwards Afb Aero Club — California City, CA

California City, CA, US

On April 3, 2004, a Cessna 177 (registration N88BM) operated by Edwards Afb Aero Club was involved in an aviation accident near California City, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the certified flight instructor's failure to maintain an adequate airspeed, which resulted in a stall/mush condition and a collision with terrain. Factors in the accident were strong tailwind conditions and a sudden wind shift. 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 certified flight instructor reported that the airplane collided with terrain during the initial climb after descending with a roll and yaw to the right. He noted a wind shift to tailwind conditions after egressing the aircraft.

Accident Details

The airplane impacted terrain during the initial climb phase of takeoff. The certified flight instructor (CFI) reported that prior to departure, wind conditions were calm. During the initial climb, at an altitude of approximately 50 to 75 feet above ground level, the airplane began to descend while simultaneously rolling and yawing to the right. The CFI was unable to maintain control, and the airplane continued descending at a rate of about 300 feet per minute. The airplane struck the ground, and a fire broke out.

Pilot Report

After exiting the aircraft, the CFI observed a strong shift in the wind, resulting in tailwind conditions. A few minutes later, the wind became light again, followed by periodic gusts and further wind shifts. The CFI stated that the airplane experienced no mechanical failures or malfunctions during the flight.

Aircraft Information

The CFI reported the airplane's gross weight at the time of the accident was approximately 2,341 pounds. The published maximum gross weight for the airplane is 2,350 pounds.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040508X00574. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.