Incident Overview
A pilot intending to land at Oceanside diverted to Fallbrook, California, because of weather conditions. While turning onto the final approach course, the pilot initially noted that the airplane was on the VASI (visual approach slope indicator) directed glide path and completed the before-landing checklist. Subsequently, the pilot observed that the VASI lights were red, indicating the airplane was below the proper glide path. In response, the pilot added full power and pulled up, but the airplane struck the ground about 20 feet short of the runway, resulting in the separation of the landing gear from the airplane.
Pilot Statement
The pilot informed FAA inspectors that he had misjudged the visual approach.
Aircraft and Damage
The specific aircraft type, registration, and engine count are not specified in the source. The landing gear was separated from the airplane during the event.
Location
The incident occurred in Fallbrook, California, after the pilot diverted from the intended destination of Oceanside.
Weather and Visibility
Weather conditions prompted the diversion, but no further details regarding visibility, cloud cover, or wind are provided in the source.
Investigation
FAA inspectors interviewed the pilot, who attributed the incident to misjudging the visual approach. No other causal factors or conclusions are stated in the source.