Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from trees during a go-around. Contributing to the accident were the pilot inadvertently allowing the airplane to porpoise during the landing flare, and the presence of a tailwind.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
While attempting a landing, the pilot inadvertently allowed the airplane to porpoise during the landing flare. He therefore initiated a go-around, but did not clear some trees about one-quarter mile off the departure end of the runway. After impacting the trees, he was able to maintain airplane control, and subsequently executed a second approach and a full-stop landing. After the landing, the pilot realized that his first approach had been made with a tailwind of about 20 knots.
Source record
Factual narrative
While attempting a landing in visual meteorological conditions, the pilot inadvertently allowed the airplane to porpoise during the landing flare. He therefore initiated a go-around, but did not clear some trees about one-quarter mile off the departure end of the runway. After impacting the trees, he was able to maintain airplane control, and subsequently executed a second approach and a full-stop landing. After the landing, the pilot realized that his first approach had been made with a tailwind of about 20 knots. The impact with the tress resulted in numerous dents in the leading edge of the wings, and a tear in the skin of the horizontal stabilizer.