Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot-in-command's improper compensation for wind conditions and lack of rudder input during an attempted go-around that resulted in loss of control in flight and collision with terrain. Rudder input was needed to compensate for the p-factor generated by the increase in power on the go-around.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The student pilot, returning from a cross-country flight, floated long while landing and added power to attempt a go-around. Upon addition of power the airplane veered to the left, landed in the grass and rolled to a stop into the trees.
Source record
Factual narrative
On April 6, 1994, about 1800 eastern daylight time, N2477E, a Piper PA-38 crashed into trees on landing at Tallahassee Commercial Airport, Tallahassee, Florida, while on a 14 CFR Part 91 instructional flight. The airplane is registered to and operated by D-Bar-D Aviation Inc. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The airplane was substantially damaged and the student pilot reported no injuries. The flight originated from Albany, Georgia, about 1559 the same day. The student pilot stated that as he flared for landing he encountered a gust of wind from the left and he added power for a go-around. The airplane then landed and exited the runway to the left and then struck trees. The purpose of the flight was a solo cross-country instructional flight. -