Pilot Report
A pilot reported that while flying over an airport at midfield, the wind was shifting such that runway 31 became the preferable landing option. During the short final approach to runway 31, the airplane was not decelerating as expected. The pilot observed the windsock and noted that the wind was almost directly from behind the aircraft.
Go-Around Attempt
In response, the pilot removed carburetor heat, applied full power, and raised the flaps. Initially, the airplane began to accelerate, but then it seemed to sink slightly. The pilot reported that the only visible objects ahead were the tops of trees, so he pulled the nose up as high as possible to stall the airplane. Subsequently, the airplane settled through the trees.
Aircraft Condition
The pilot did not indicate any pre-existing mechanical issues with the airplane prior to the impact.
Balked Landing Procedures
The pilot information manual specified the following procedures for a balked landing (go-around) climb: Immediately after applying full power, reduce the wing flap setting to 20 degrees. If obstacles must be cleared during the go-around, maintain wing flaps at 10 to 20 degrees until obstacles are cleared. After clearing obstacles, retract the flaps as the airplane accelerates to the normal flaps-up climb speed of 80 to 90 MPH.