Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing, and his failure to properly execute a go-around.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
After completing a 167-mile cross country flight in dark night conditions, the pilot landed on a 5,000-foot long runway. The pilot stated that during the landing roll, the airplane encountered a gust of wind from the right, and he could not prevent the airplane from drifting to the left. He said that he applied full power and attempted a go around, but the airplane would not become airborne. The pilot said he reduced power before the airplane struck a fence on the left side. There was substantial damage to the wing, fuselage, and the landing gear, but no injuries to the four persons on-board.
Source record
Factual narrative
After completing a 167-mile cross country flight in dark night conditions, the pilot landed on a 5,000-foot long runway. The pilot stated that during the landing roll, the airplane encountered a gust of wind from the right, and he could not prevent the airplane from drifting to the left. He said that he applied full power and attempted a go around, but the airplane would not become airborne. The pilot said he reduced power before the airplane struck a fence on the left side. There was substantial damage to the wing, fuselage, and the landing gear, but no injuries to the four persons on-board.