21/05/2024
Do you know the one thing to do to help prevent a fatal accident like this one?
Minutes after takeoff from KHWO, the CFI of a C-172, his student pilot, and a backseat passenger experienced an unknown problem that resulted in a stall/spin accident just beyond the end of the runway. Two fatalities and one serious injury was the result.
Takeaway: the FAA Airplane Flying Handbook instructs us to immediately pitch for best glide speed when the aircraft is unable to maintain altitude. Events such as this one usually requires a sudden pitch-down to achieve best glide speed. Failure to pitch down usually results in the aircraft stalling and spinning at low altitude. Fatalities are usually the result. As a matter of fact, the NTSB says stall/spin accidents are the most common reason pilots and their passengers die.
The FAA recommends we receive stall recognition and recovery refresher training at least every six months to help mitigate these avoidable tragedies.
Fly safe friends ✈️
