Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the aborted landing, which resulted in a runway excursion, collision with a runway sign, and nose over.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that during landing he flared higher than normal and the airplane bounced on touchdown. While attempting to abort the landing, the pilot applied full power and the airplane subsequently veered left. He attempted to maintain directional control with the rudder pedals, but the airplane continued to the left, exited the runway, hit a runway sign and nosed over. The accident resulted in substantial damage to both wings, fuselage and empennage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.