Incident Overview
During a landing approach, a pilot entered the traffic pattern behind a slower Stearman aircraft and reduced speed to maintain a proper interval. The nominal approach speed differential between the two aircraft was 26 mph. A right-hand traffic pattern was in use, and a right crosswind prevailed, which effectively reduced the desired interval on base leg due to a tailwind component.
Sequence of Events
On the landing roll, the pilot of the Stearman broadcast that he would not be able to make the first turnoff. At that time, the mishap aircraft was on short final, and its pilot broadcast his intention to execute a go-around. During the go-around, the aircraft drifted left, oscillated around the longitudinal axis, and rolled into a left spin. It then impacted the ground nose-down at a 70-degree angle in an inverted attitude.
Investigation Findings
The investigation revealed no mechanical failure or malfunction in the aircraft. No further causal factors were identified in the source material.
Conclusion
The accident occurred during a go-around maneuver following a traffic pattern conflict. The aircraft entered a spin and struck the ground in a steep, inverted attitude. The investigation did not determine a specific cause.