Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 172RG near Wellington, CO — 2011-04-02

Final reportCEN11LA266
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Date
2011-04-02
Location
Wellington, CO, USA
Airport
4CO2
Aircraft
CESSNA 172RG
Registration
N4914V
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Go-around

Probable cause

The certified flight instructor's failure to maintain directional control during the go-around.

NTSB narrative

On final approach to the runway, the pilot had difficulty maintaining centerline on the 15-foot-wide runway. The pilot requested assistance from the certified flight instructor (CFI) who directed a go-around. After the pilot began the go-around procedures, the CFI took control of the airplane and reduced the flap setting. The airplane was flown in ground effect as the airplane drifted to the left of the runway. The airplane was not at a safe flying airspeed to maneuver away from a gazebo and windsock. The airplane's left wing collided with the gazebo and the right wing collided with the windsock. The CFI performed a forced landing and the airplane skidded to a stop. The airframe sustained substantial crushing damage to both wings and the forward fuselage, including the firewall. A postaccident examination of the engine and airframe did not reveal any anomalies that would have prevented normal operation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Deciding to go around instead of attempting to land despite difficulties.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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