Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the airplane while landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that upon landing approach at a private grass and dirt airstrip, he decided to execute a go around. He applied full engine power but did not “achieve good speed and lift” and then decided that “landing was best.” Upon landing, the airplane encountered a rough area of the field; the nose landing gear dug in and subsequently collapsed and the airplane nosed over. The airframe sustained substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer, rudder, and engine mount. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical anomalies that precluded normal operation of the airplane.