Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain adequate airspeed while on approach for landing which, resulted in an aerodynamic stall and collision with terrain.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, during a cross-country flight, he was concerned with the low fuel status and determined he would not have enough fuel to continue to the intended destination. He looked for a place to land and while approaching a small valley, he noticed a private, 25-foot-wide airstrip and opted to perform a precautionary landing. He circled the airstrip and while on the approach and trying to keep the airspeed as slow as possible the airplane stalled. The left wing collided with the ground and was substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.