Accident Overview
On the day of the accident, a pilot approached a 1,950-foot grass airstrip. According to witnesses, the pilot appeared high and fast on the approach. One witness noted that the pilot performed S-turns and side-slipped on final approach. The airplane touched down approximately halfway to three-quarters of the way down the runway. Shortly after touchdown, power was applied—described as the sound of full power—and the airplane climbed out at a steep angle.
Witness Observations
As the airplane reached the end of the runway, witnesses estimated its altitude between 30 and 75 feet above ground level with full flaps extended. At that point, the right wing dropped, and the airplane descended at a steep angle into a ravine located at the end of the runway. The ravine was approximately 100 feet below the runway elevation.
Investigation Findings
No preexisting mechanical deficiencies were found during the course of the investigation. Toxicological testing of the pilot was performed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) with negative results for carbon monoxide, cyanide, and ethanol. However, bupropion was detected in blood and urine. Bupropion is a prescription medication used for the treatment of depression and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and also for prescription use in smoking cessation. The pilot had been taking Zyban (bupropion) and was using other measures to attempt to stop smoking. The FAA does not permit an aviation medical examiner to issue a medical certificate on mood-altering medications and prohibits certification of pilots using bupropion for smoking cessation unless the pilot does not take the medication within 72 hours of flight.