Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed while in the traffic pattern, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that the left wing stalled while turning from base leg to final while practicing takeoffs and landings. The airplane impacted the ground short of the approach end of the runway. The pilot reported the airplane was heavier than he was used to and that it was a hot, humid day.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09CA566 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 6, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Mondovi, Wisconsin
- Nearest airport
- Log Cabin Airport (WS69)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper J3C-65
- N-number
- N3549W
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
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.