On July 4, 2004, a Cessna 172E (registration N3581S) was involved in an aviation accident near LA Junta, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the go-around, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot practicing takeoffs and landings experienced a stall during a go-around maneuver due to low airspeed, resulting in an impact with terrain adjacent to the runway.
What happened
The pilot was conducting solo flight operations with the specific intent of practicing takeoff and landing procedures. This activity followed a previous week where the pilot had successfully completed their initial solo flights. During one approach to the runway, the pilot became uncomfortable with the stability or configuration of the landing approach. Consequently, the decision was made to execute a go-around maneuver.
During the execution of this maneuver, the aircraft was maintained at a low airspeed when full power was applied. This combination of factors caused the airplane to yaw significantly to the left. The pilot reported that the aircraft subsequently entered a stall condition. The loss of control resulted in the airplane impacting terrain located on the left side of the runway.
The investigation
Investigation details were not provided in the source material.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the go-around, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with terrain.
What happened in the 4 Jul 2004 Cessna 172E accident near LA Junta, CO?
A pilot practicing takeoffs and landings experienced a stall during a go-around maneuver due to low airspeed, resulting in an impact with terrain adjacent to the runway.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 4 Jul 2004 involved a Cessna 172E, registration N3581S, at LA Junta, CO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the go-around, which resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with terrain.
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