What happened
The aircraft operated in a field estimated to be 500 feet long under calm wind conditions. The density altitude was calculated at 4,900 feet. After touching down and rolling approximately 300 feet, the pilot determined that the remaining runway length was insufficient to bring the aircraft to a stop safely. Consequently, the pilot applied power to initiate a go-around maneuver.
As the aircraft became airborne during the climb-out, the engine began to cough and sputter. This irregular operation continued as the aircraft gained altitude. At the end of the available field, the landing gear struck a fence post. The impact caused the aircraft to nosed over.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical performance of the engine during the critical go-around phase. Examination revealed that the engine experienced significant power loss or irregular combustion, described as coughing and sputtering, immediately after power was applied. This mechanical anomaly occurred while the aircraft was transitioning from ground roll to flight.
Findings
The primary factors contributing to the accident included the insufficient length of the landing area and the engine performance issues during the go-around. The pilot's decision to attempt a stop in a 500-foot field, followed by a late go-around initiation, left minimal margin for error. The density altitude of 4,900 feet may have further degraded engine performance. The collision with the fence post resulted in the nose-over attitude.
Safety message
Pilots operating from short or unimproved fields must carefully calculate required takeoff and landing distances, accounting for density altitude and potential engine performance degradation. Go-around procedures should be initiated early if stopping is uncertain to ensure adequate obstacle clearance and engine power availability.