What happened
The accident occurred during a nighttime flight operation while the aircraft was on final approach for a landing. Environmental conditions were characterized by variable winds; specifically, meteorological data recorded 55 minutes prior to the event indicated winds from 340 degrees at 15 knots with gusts reaching 24 knots at a location approximately 17 nautical miles from the accident site.
As the aircraft established its final approach path, a wind gust displaced the airplane to the right. The pilot visually identified trees in the flight path and immediately applied power to execute a go-around maneuver. Despite the attempt to climb away, the aircraft impacted the tree line. The force of the collision caused the airplane to nosed over, resulting in it coming to rest inverted at a distance of 50 feet from the runway threshold.
The investigation
Investigation findings focused on the immediate sequence of events and environmental factors. The primary mechanical outcome was the structural failure due to impact with terrain obstacles (trees). No specific mechanical pre-existing failures were cited in the narrative, placing the emphasis on the operational environment and pilot response timing relative to the wind shear event.
Findings
The critical factor in this accident was the combination of wind gusts during a low-altitude approach phase. The displacement of the aircraft to the right reduced the margin for error, necessitating an immediate go-around. The proximity to the runway threshold and the presence of trees limited the pilot's ability to recover altitude before impact. The inversion upon impact suggests a loss of control or insufficient energy state during the initial climb-out from the go-around.
Safety message
This incident highlights the dangers of wind shear during final approach, particularly at night when visual references are limited. Pilots must maintain strict adherence to minimum safe altitudes and be prepared for rapid changes in wind conditions that can displace the aircraft from its intended glide path. Early recognition of drift and timely decision-making are essential to avoid terrain obstacles.