Pilot Debrief

Cessna 120 near Gulkana, AK — 2020-05-24

Final reportANC20CA054
Sign in to save
Date
2020-05-24
Location
Gulkana, AK, USA
Aircraft
Cessna 120
Registration
N72536
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain proper airspeed during final approach to landing, and his subsequent failure to attain sufficient altitude to clear trees during an attempted go-around.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that while landing at an unimproved airstrip, his airspeed on final approach was too fast, and he decided to perform a go-around. During the go-around, the left main tire struck trees at the departure end of the airstrip and the airplane subsequently descended into the brush and trees. The right wing and right elevator sustained substantial damage. The pilot stated there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. In the recommendation section of the NTSB Accident/Incident Reporting Form 6120.1, the pilot stated that the accident may have been prevented if he had been more aware of his limitations and the airplane's performance limitations.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

Related mishaps