Accident Overview
A Cessna aircraft, registration N97169, collided with terrain during a go-around maneuver. The accident occurred after the airplane encountered a downdraft while on final approach, resulting in altitude loss. The pilot opted to execute a go-around, during which a right turn was made. The airplane subsequently lost more altitude and struck the terrain. No mechanical failures or malfunctions were reported at the time of the accident.
Sequence of Events
While on final approach, the airplane experienced a downdraft, causing it to lose altitude. In response, the pilot initiated a go-around. During the go-around, a right turn was performed, during which the airplane lost additional altitude and collided with the terrain. The pilot of another Cessna that landed immediately before N97169 reported that the UNICOM operator had mentioned possible downdrafts on final approach. That pilot successfully landed after encountering the downdrafts.
Prior Landing Report
The pilot of the Cessna that landed ahead of N97169 stated that the UNICOM operator had advised of possible downdrafts on final approach. That pilot did encounter downdrafts but was able to complete a successful landing.