Incident Overview
A sightseeing flight was being conducted as part of a group of three aircraft, with the accident aircraft second in sequence to land. During the landing approach, at approximately 200 feet above ground level (AGL), the aircraft encountered a severe gust. The gust caused the aircraft to yaw 30 to 40 degrees to the right and roll into a 40-degree bank. The pilot responded by adding power to execute a go-around, and the aircraft began a slight climb.
Maneuvering and Terrain Encounter
Due to nearby mountainous terrain, the pilot initiated an early turn to the crosswind leg. However, the aircraft was unable to climb significantly and remained at an altitude of approximately 200 to 300 feet AGL while in the traffic pattern. On the subsequent final approach for a second landing attempt, the aircraft impacted the ground approximately 150 feet to the left of the runway.
Impact and Damage
At the moment of impact, the aircraft was at a heading of approximately 195 degrees, with full power applied and in a nose-high attitude. The nose landing gear and right main landing gear were separated from the aircraft, and the airplane came to rest on its nose. Approximately one hour after the accident, wind conditions caused the aircraft to be blown onto its back.
Pilot and Operational Context
According to a representative of Scenic Airlines, Inc., the pilot's date of hire was April 24, 1998, and he had been employed with the company for less than a month prior to the accident. The pilot was from California and was new to the geographic area. The density altitude at the time of the accident was calculated to be 7,854 feet.