Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's misjudgment of speed and distance on final approach resulting in touchdown prior to the runway, a runway excursion down the right side of the runway, and a collision with an embankment.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
According to the pilot, while on short final the airplane was "lower and slower" than anticipated. The pilot added engine power; however, the stall horn sounded and the airplane impacted the ground prior to the paved portion of the runway. The airplane bounced, traveled down the right side of the runway, collided with an embankment, and came to rest upright. Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that the empennage of the airplane sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
According to the pilot, while on short final the airplane was "lower and slower" than anticipated. The pilot added engine power; however, the stall horn sounded and the airplane impacted the ground prior to the paved portion of the runway. The airplane bounced, traveled down the right side of the runway, collided with an embankment, and came to rest upright. Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that the empennage of the airplane sustained substantial damage. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.