Incident Overview
A pilot flying a Navion to a distant location for an annual inspection reported engine problems approximately 20 minutes into the flight. The pilot diverted to a nearby airport to perform a precautionary landing, but instead of landing, executed a go-around to improve the landing angle.
Flight Sequence
While circling in the traffic pattern, the pilot determined that the rough-running engine would not allow the aircraft to reach the airport. He then intentionally stalled the aircraft into trees short of the runway.
Mechanical Findings
A subsequent inspection of the aircraft found that the engine carburetor was leaking fuel. Each time the pilot advanced the throttle, fuel leaked from the carburetor, resulting in a degradation of available engine power.
Pilot Qualifications
Investigation revealed that the pilot was not rated to fly the aircraft and possessed no medical certificate.