Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from terrain while maneuvering at low altitude.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that while maneuvering the airplane to make a low pass of a remote gravel bar, he inadvertently lost altitude and the right wing struck the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, empennage, wings and lift struts. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. In the recommendation section of the NTSB Accident/Incident Reporting Form 6120.1, the pilot stated that the accident may have been prevented if he had maintained awareness of wind conditions and how it affects aircraft performance.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot stated that while maneuvering the airplane to make a low pass of a remote gravel bar, he inadvertently lost altitude and the right wing struck the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, empennage, wings and lift struts. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. In the recommendation section of the NTSB Accident/Incident Reporting Form 6120.1, the pilot stated that the accident may have been prevented if he had maintained awareness of wind conditions and how it affects aircraft performance.