Cessna 172N N5246D accident near Atmautluak, Alaska

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed while landing in gusty winds, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall; his improper aircraft weight calculations; and his operation of the airplane over the allowable gross weight limit.

NTSB analysis

The commercial pilot was on an on-demand air taxi flight with three passengers and their baggage. He stated that he was approaching a remote airport to land on Runway 15 when the wind shifted and he encountered wind gusts that made the airplane difficult to control. He said that he added full power to go around, but that the airplane would not climb, stalled, and then descended to the ground short of the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. Federal Aviation Administration inspectors found no mechanical problems with the airplane and determined that it was being operated at least 166 pounds over the maximum gross weight limit. Operating an airplane over the certificated gross weight is prohibited and markedly reduces its performance capabilities.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC09LA018 for the full record.