What happened
The pilot reported that her approach for landing was excessively high and fast, which resulted in a touchdown on the middle third of the runway. During the roll-out, she applied brakes to slow down, but the aircraft swerved off the south side of the runway. Subsequently, it struck a tree, then came to rest next to a stump and a rise in the terrain.
The investigation
The pilot reported that the wind was calm at the airport. Approximately 25 miles west at the San Jose Muni ARPT, the 1545 PDT wind was from 320 degrees at 9 knots.
Findings
- High and fast approach
- Touchdown on middle third of runway
- Loss of directional control during roll-out
- Collision with tree