Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from a tree while maneuvering.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, while turning to the base leg at the uncontrolled airport, he heard and observed inbound traffic on a straight in approach for the same runway. The pilot turned the airplane to avoid the conflicting traffic and subsequently collided with the top of an unseen dead tree snag. The pilot still had control of the airplane, and unsure of the condition of his nose wheel, he returned to his departure airport where he landed without incident. Examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the left horizontal stabilizer. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.