This May 2009 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 152. Injuries: 1 Minor. Location: Lumberton, N.J. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The pilot was attempting to do a soft-field takeoff. The winds were variable at three knots. The pilot lowered 10° of flaps, applied full back pressure on the control column, and applied full engine power. The airplane became airborne. Instead of letting the aircraft accelerate in ground effect, the pilot allowed the airplane to climb above it. The airplane stalled, spun to the left and hit the ground.
Probable cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain aircraft control during initial climb, which resulted in a loss of adequate airspeed and a subsequent aerodynamic stall.
For more information: NTSB.Gov
