This March 2008 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: American Champion 7GCAA. Injuries: None. Location: Tracy, Calif. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The CFI was demonstrating a simulated engine failure during takeoff initial climb by executing a 180° turn back to the airport. As he was completing the maneuver, he initiated a go-around by applying full power. His actions were not quick enough and the airplane did not regain flying speed. It stalled and hit the runway in a left-wing low attitude. The CFI stated he was aware of the tailwind condition he would encounter as the airplane completed the 180° turn and that upon exiting the airplane, he noted the wind to be considerably stronger than he had expected. No anomalies were noted with the engine or flight control systems.
Probable cause: The flight instructor’s inadequate compensation for the tailwind condition and failure to maintain adequate airspeed that led to an inadvertent stall.
For more information: NTSB.gov
