What happened
The aircraft operated at night and executed a landing that resulted in a loss of directional control. The pilot had already abandoned one approach earlier due to excessive airspeed. For the second attempt, the aircraft was established on final approach with an indicated airspeed of 75 mph. Touchdown occurred significantly further down the runway than intended. After the initial contact, the aircraft floated through the flare phase rather than settling onto the pavement immediately. The pilot continued the landing maneuver despite the extended float.
As the aircraft reached the end of the runway, it ran off the paved surface. During this exit, the aircraft groundlooped, causing a violent yawing motion. In an effort to avoid colliding with a blast fence located near the runway threshold or perimeter, the pilot attempted to steer away from the obstacle. This evasive action resulted in the aircraft colliding with a tree.
The investigation
The factual narrative indicates that the landing was compromised by poor energy management and delayed control inputs. The initial approach was rejected due to speed issues, suggesting difficulty in maintaining proper glidepath and airspeed control. On the subsequent attempt, the low approach speed of 75 mph contributed to a high angle of attack during flare. This configuration allowed the aircraft to float beyond the normal touchdown zone. The failure to arrest the float promptly led to the runway excursion.
Findings
Contributing factors included the late touchdown point and the subsequent groundloop. The pilot's decision to continue the landing after floating, rather than executing a go-around or applying firm braking earlier, exacerbated the situation. The collision with the tree was a direct result of the groundloop and the attempt to avoid the blast fence.
Safety message
Pilots should ensure proper airspeed control during final approach and be prepared to execute a go-around if touchdown is not achieved within the normal zone. Floating an aircraft through the flare increases the risk of runway excursion, especially at night or in low-visibility conditions.