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CESSNA 172S NO SERIES accident at Martinsville, VA, 2 May 2021
On May 2, 2021, a CESSNA 172S NO SERIES operated by HEAVY METAL AIR LLC was involved in an aviation accident near Martinsville, VA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s improper pitch control during a go-around in gusting crosswind conditions, which resulted in a tail strike and a runway excursion. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Probable cause
The pilot’s improper pitch control during a go-around in gusting crosswind conditions, which resulted in a tail strike and a runway excursion.
— NTSB Determination
Contributing factors
PilotIncorrect use/operation
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 2 May 2021 CESSNA 172S NO SERIES accident near Martinsville, VA?
The pilot’s improper pitch control during a go-around in gusting crosswind conditions, which resulted in a tail strike and a runway excursion.
Were there any fatalities in the 2 May 2021 CESSNA 172S NO SERIES accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 May 2021 involved a CESSNA 172S NO SERIES, operated by HEAVY METAL AIR LLC, at Martinsville, VA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot’s improper pitch control during a go-around in gusting crosswind conditions, which resulted in a tail strike and a runway excursion.
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