Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain adequate airspeed during a low altitude maneuver, resulting in a loss of control.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he was conducting a series of aerial drops for training. After the third pass, he was unable to attain a positive rate of climb. The airplane continued to descend, and the right main landing gear contacted the ground and separated. The airplane veered right and impacted a metal pipe corral fence resulting in substantial damage to the leftwing strut and firewall. The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC24LA021 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 6, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Huasna, California
- Nearest airport
- Huasna Ranch (None)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172
- N-number
- N8907B
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1958
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- ADRP
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.