On December 31, 1993, a Grumman AA1B-TR2 (registration N1413R) was involved in an aviation accident near Riverside, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a bounced landing and subsequent go-around, which resulted in a collision with a fence. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot attempted a go-around after bouncing on touchdown, but the aircraft drifted left in ground effect and struck a fence. Post-crash inspection revealed no mechanical failures.
What happened
During the landing phase of flight, the pilot reported that the airplane bounced upon initial touchdown. In response to the bounce, the pilot initiated a go-around maneuver. A witness on the ground observed the aircraft's attitude during this climb, noting it was approximately 30 degrees nose up. As the aircraft remained in ground effect, it reportedly began to drift toward the left side of the runway environment.
The loss of directional control or insufficient correction resulted in the airplane colliding with a fence located near the airport perimeter. The impact caused damage to the airframe consistent with the described trajectory and attitude during the failed climb-out attempt.
The investigation
A post-crash examination of the wreckage was conducted to determine if mechanical issues contributed to the accident. The inspection revealed no evidence of any preexisting mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have hindered the pilot's ability to control the aircraft or execute the go-around procedure.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a bounced landing and subsequent go-around, which resulted in a collision with a fence.