On December 2, 2015, a STINSON 108 UNDESIGNAT was involved in an aviation accident near Sharon, KS. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to continue the unstabilized approach and landing and his delayed decision to go around with an insufficient climb rate, which resulted with collision with trees. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During landing on a rough grass strip, the airplane hit a bump, became airborne, and the pilot aborted due to approaching trees. While turning at low speed, the right wing strut struck a fence post, causing substantial damage.
The Incident
The pilot reported that during the landing roll on a rough grass private strip, the airplane impacted a "little bump" and became airborne. He elected to abort the landing because the end of the runway and trees were "coming up pretty fast."
Pilot's Actions
According to the pilot, he knew that the airplane would not be able to climb and turn simultaneously due to the low airspeed. He chose to turn right, and subsequently the right wing strut impacted a fence post.
Aircraft Damage
Both wings and the fuselage sustained substantial damage.
Mechanical Status
The pilot stated that there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 2 Dec 2015 STINSON 108 UNDESIGNAT accident near Sharon, KS?
During landing on a rough grass strip, the airplane hit a bump, became airborne, and the pilot aborted due to approaching trees. While turning at low speed, the right wing strut struck a fence post, causing substantial damage.
Were there any fatalities in the 2 Dec 2015 STINSON 108 UNDESIGNAT accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Dec 2015 involved a STINSON 108 UNDESIGNAT, at Sharon, KS.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to continue the unstabilized approach and landing and his delayed decision to go around with an insufficient climb rate, which resulted with collision with trees.