What happened
The flight narrative indicates that the aircraft approached the runway threshold at an altitude of approximately 50 feet. At this point, the pilot reduced engine power but subsequently added it back without applying sufficient rudder pressure to counteract the resulting yaw. This lack of coordination caused the aircraft to drift toward the left side of the runway.
Recognizing the deviation, the pilot decided to execute a go-around procedure. Upon applying full engine power for the climb, the asymmetric thrust further exacerbated the leftward drift. The left wing struck bushes located off the left side of the runway. The impact caused the aircraft to spin around before coming to a final rest within the vegetation.
The investigation
The primary finding from the pilot's statement centers on the control inputs during the low-altitude phase of flight. The pilot acknowledged that while power was adjusted, the necessary rudder compensation was not maintained. This specific omission led directly to the lateral displacement of the aircraft away from the runway centerline.
Findings
The sequence of events highlights a critical loss of directional control during a high-power, low-speed maneuver. The failure to maintain adequate rudder pressure against engine torque and P-factor resulted in an uncontrolled drift. The subsequent application of full power during the go-around amplified this effect, leading to ground contact with obstacles off the runway.
Safety message
Pilots must ensure precise coordination between throttle and rudder inputs, especially during low-altitude operations and go-arounds where asymmetric thrust effects are most pronounced. Maintaining directional control is essential to prevent runway excursions.