Aircraft strikes terrain during aborted go-around

Casualties unknown • Gold King, AK, US

An aircraft struck trees and brush while attempting a go-around following multiple bounces on landing, after the pilot encountered unexpected wind conditions.

What happened

During the final approach for a landing to the north, the pilot experienced an increased sink rate. While attempting to manage the descent, the aircraft bounced three times on the runway. Following the third bounce, the pilot applied full power and initiated a go-around maneuver.

As the aircraft attempted to climb into rising terrain, the tail of the plane struck brush. The left wing subsequently struck a tree, prompting the pilot to abort the go-around attempt. Although ground reports initially indicated a wind from the north at 8 knots, the pilot noted upon reaching the ground that the actual wind was from the south.

Probable cause

The pilot attempted a go-around into rising terrain where the aircraft's climb angle matched the angle of the terrain, following multiple bounces on landing and unexpected wind direction.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-08-31 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Gold King, AK?

An aircraft struck trees and brush while attempting a go-around following multiple bounces on landing, after the pilot encountered unexpected wind conditions.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-08-31 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N2664A, operated by Bruce V. Zmuda, at Gold King, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot attempted a go-around into rising terrain where the aircraft's climb angle matched the angle of the terrain, following multiple bounces on landing and unexpected wind direction.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X17759. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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