On June 5, 1997, a North American NAVION (registration N91711) was involved in an aviation accident near Fredericksburg, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's delayed go-around which resulted in the inflight collision with trees off the departure end of the runway. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported engine power loss on final approach, executed a go-around, and struck trees beyond the runway. Investigation found no mechanical malfunction or fuel contamination.
Summary
During the final approach, the pilot reported that the engine was losing power. He elected to perform a go-around, during which the airplane collided with trees off the departure end of the runway.
Investigation Details
An FAA inspector examined the wreckage. The inspection did not disclose evidence of any mechanical malfunction. The fuel tank was intact and observed to be about three-quarters full. The FAA inspector's report stated, "the engine appears to have been running at time of impact... There was no apparent reason for the engine to quit."
Additionally, the facility where the airplane had last been refueled was tested for fuel contamination, with negative results.