Probable cause
The pilot's decision to continue the unstabilized approach and landing and his delayed decision to go around with an insufficient climb rate, which resulted with collision with trees.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during the landing roll on a rough grass private strip, the airplane impacted a "little bump" and became airborne. He reported that he elected to abort the landing due to the end of the runway and trees that were "coming up pretty fast".
The pilot further reported that he knew the airplane would not be able to climb and turn at the same time due to the low airspeed. He elected to turn right, and subsequently impacted a fence post with the right wing strut. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings, and the fuselage.
According to the pilot there were no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA070 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 2, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Sharon, Kansas
- Nearest airport
- Private Airstrip (N/A)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Stinson 108
- N-number
- N97537
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1946
- 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.