What happened
The pilot was conducting training exercises focused on emergency power-off landing techniques. During one such maneuver, the aircraft was established on final approach to the runway. As the aircraft neared the threshold, the pilot determined that he would not be able to clear a line of trees situated to the west of the runway.
To avoid impacting the obstacles, the pilot applied additional power. Despite this correction, the aircraft continued its descent while in a flare attitude. The main gear and fuselage struck the ground approximately 200 feet short of the runway threshold. The impact forces caused the aircraft to nose over, coming to rest in an inverted position.
The investigation
Post-accident examination revealed that the Cessna 172 sustained substantial damage to the airframe. The N7143L was found resting on its back, indicating a severe ground impact. No mechanical failures or pre-impact anomalies were reported by the pilot prior to the loss of control.
Findings
The primary factors contributing to this incident were the pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed and his misjudgment of the glide path during an emergency landing maneuver. The decision to add power late in the approach did not prevent the aircraft from striking the ground short of the intended touchdown point. The resulting substantial damage required extensive repairs to the fuselage and control surfaces.