Primary finding
Probable cause
The failure of the pilot to maintain control of the aircraft and his delayed decision to execute a go around. A factor in the accident was the strong gusty wind condition.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that, due to the gusty wind conditions, he attempted the approach with a higher than normal approach speed. He stated that he decided to execute a missed approach with approximately 1300 feet of runway remaining. He stated he retracted the flaps and added full power. He said that after the application of full power, the engine backfired and he struck the 80 foot trees off the end of the runway. The passenger on board the aircraft, and a ground witness made no mention of observing or hearing any problems with the aircraft engine prior to the crash. Examination of the aircraft revealed the flaps were in the full down position, and there was cordwise scratching and twisting toward low pitch of the propeller.
Source record
Factual narrative
-