This November 2007 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
Aircraft: Cessna 150. Location: Palmer, Alaska. Injuries: 2 Serious. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The CFI and a student pilot were attempting to land at night in light winds. The CFI said he inadvertently allowed the student pilot to descend too steeply and with too high airspeed. His verbal command for the student to stop the excessive descent and slow the airspeed was initially followed, but the student pilot again allowed the airplane to attain a rapid descent rate and high airspeed as the approach continued.
The CFI took control of the airplane, added full engine power, and initiated a go-around. During the attempted go-around, the CFI said he encountered severe wind shear. The CFI reported that despite the application of full power the airplane hit the ground. The Cessna hit a stand of trees and came to rest inverted 300 yards short of the approach end of the runway.
The post-accident examination did not uncover any mechanical issues with the aircraft.
Probable cause: The flight instructor’s inadequate supervision of the student, and his delayed go-around. The dark night was a contributing factor.
For more information: NTSB.gov