Incident Overview
According to pilot-rated witnesses, the aircraft approached the runway at a speed they described as "very fast on final approach." The airplane floated for approximately one-third of the runway length before beginning a flare. During the flare, the airplane ballooned, rising an estimated 50 to 75 feet, and continued to lose speed as it traveled down the runway.
Sequence of Events
With about one-third of the runway length remaining, the witnesses observed the right wing drop. They then heard power being applied as the airplane initiated what they referred to as an "uncoordinated turn" to the west. The airplane appeared to be "near a stall" when it passed out of their line of sight, and they heard "full power being applied" just before the sound of impact.
Witness Background
One witness, who had previously flown with the pilot, noted that he had cautioned her to be careful with power application because the engine had recently been overhauled. A mechanic had reportedly instructed that manifold pressure (MP) should be limited until the engine was broken in. The aircraft's maintenance records included break-in procedures from a previous overhaul, which directed the pilot not to exceed 30 inches of MP on takeoff except in an emergency.
Post-Accident Examination
Examinations of the aircraft and engine conducted after the accident revealed no anomalies or mechanical issues.