What happened
The pilot was conducting an approach for landing and entered a pattern with significant traffic density. As the aircraft neared the runway threshold, the pilot reduced the throttle to a minimum power setting. The descent angle became too steep, placing the aircraft on an undershot trajectory during the short final phase of the approach.
To correct the descent path, the pilot slowly advanced the throttle. However, the engine did not produce immediate power response. Recognizing the critical situation, the pilot further increased the throttle input. Engine power began to increase only moments before impact. The aircraft struck trees located approximately 250 feet from the end of the airstrip.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the operational sequence leading to the collision. Examination of the event timeline highlighted a critical delay in engine response during a low-altitude maneuver. The physical evidence confirmed the point of impact relative to the runway infrastructure.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the accident was the delayed engine response during a go-around attempt at low altitude. The pilot's initial slow throttle advancement was insufficient to arrest the descent in time, and the subsequent power increase occurred too late to prevent the collision with the trees.