Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain proper pitch control during the initial climb, which resulted in a stall, loss of airplane control, and collision with terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that the airplane lifted off about 300 feet from the end of the 2,400-foot-long dirt runway. Shortly after takeoff, the airplane pitched up. The airplane then stalled, and the left wing dropped. The pilot was unable to recover control of the airplane before it impacted the ground. The airplane came to rest about 600 feet from the end of the runway. A postaccident examination of the airframe revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR13LA038 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 11, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Maricopa, Arizona
- Nearest airport
- Mel'S Ranch (AZ78)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 172P
- N-number
- N65835
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1982
- 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.