Aircraft Contacts Dirt Pile During Low-Altitude Flight Over Coal Mines, Veers into Trees on Landing (N736FG)

Flight Details

The pilot flew over several coal strip mines at low altitude and low airspeed. The aircraft was trimmed for 60 knots with one notch of flaps extended. While flying straight and level, the pilot reported that the aircraft seemed to be drawn down into a valley.

Incident

As the pilot added power, a noise was heard when the left main landing gear contacted a dirt pile. The pilot then returned to the airport.

Landing

During the landing, the aircraft veered into a small patch of trees and came to rest.

Wind Conditions

The pilot reported that the wind was from 240 degrees at 25 knots, gusting to 30 knots.