What happened
The incident occurred during a training flight involving a series of touch-and-go landings. According to the pilot's account, the sequence of events began with the initial approach for the first landing attempt. The student pilot initiated the flare phase earlier than standard procedure, quickly realizing that the aircraft would contact the runway surface with excessive force.
In an effort to arrest the descent and execute a go-around, the pilot applied additional engine power. This input caused the nose of the airplane to pitch up sharply. The aerodynamic configuration at this low altitude and high angle of attack resulted in an immediate stall. The aircraft remained in a stalled condition for an estimated altitude of 25 to 40 feet above the ground.
During this critical phase, the airplane began to yaw to the left, causing the left wing to drop significantly. The left wingtip struck the runway surface, leading to a loss of directional control. Following the impact, the aircraft skidded off the paved surface and came to rest adjacent to the runway.
The investigation
Post-accident examination focused on the mechanical condition of the aircraft and the pilot's actions. No pre-existing mechanical failures were identified that would have contributed to the stall or loss of control. The investigation confirmed that the sequence was driven by the pilot's handling inputs during the flare phase.
Findings
The primary factor in this accident was the stall encountered during the go-around maneuver. Contributing factors included the early flare initiated by the student pilot and the subsequent excessive nose-up pitch attitude caused by premature power application at a low airspeed. The lack of sufficient airspeed to maintain lift resulted in the asymmetric yaw and wing drop that led to the runway impact.
Safety message
Pilots should be aware that improper timing during the flare phase can lead to dangerous energy states. Applying full power too early or with an excessive pitch attitude can induce a stall, particularly at low altitudes where recovery altitude is limited. Proper coordination of pitch and power is essential for successful touch-and-go operations.