25 Sep 2012: CESSNA 175A

25 Sep 2012: CESSNA 175A — Unknown operator

No fatalities • Spearfish, SD, United States

Probable cause

The pilot's delayed decision to abandon the landing attempt, which resulted in the airplane colliding with rising terrain.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

While attempting to land at a private airstrip, the pilot felt the airplane was too fast and too high on the first approach and he elected to perform a go-around. During the second approach, the airplane encountered a crosswind and the pilot aborted the landing. He applied takeoff power, lowered the flaps, pitched for a climb, and gained altitude. While maneuvering, the airplane encountered a downdraft. The airplane did not appear to be outclimbing the rising terrain, so the pilot decided to attempt a precautionary landing. During the landing, the airplane struck a roadway berm which separated the landing gear. The airplane came to rest upright. The pilot and passenger exited the airplane and noticed a small fire. The pilot attempted to extinguish the fire, but was unsuccessful, and the airplane was consumed. The pilot reported that the airplane did not experience any mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

  • cause Pilot
  • Ability to respond/compensate

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 090/20kt, vis 10sm

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