Accident Details
During a local flight in Shreveport, Louisiana, an aircraft crashed on the owner's third attempt to land. The first approach was too high, prompting a go-around. On the second approach, the aircraft landed hard and bounced, leading to another go-around. The third approach was low and slow, and the aircraft struck a tree approximately 200 feet from the runway before crashing. At the time, winds were from 170 degrees at 8 knots.
Preflight and Flight History
Prior to the flight, a mechanic performed minor upkeep on the aircraft and was unaware of any mechanical issues. The mechanic also did not know that the owner was not a rated pilot. The mechanic accompanied the owner on the flight.
Investigation Findings
An investigation revealed that the owner had applied for a combination student pilot license and Class III medical certificate on April 5, 1978. However, on the same date, he failed the medical examination due to a diabetic condition. As a result, his student pilot certificate was never validated.