Accident Overview
A private pilot, accompanied by a certificated flight instructor (CFI), was conducting a biennial flight review that included practicing a soft field landing. The runway was 2,566 feet long and asphalt, with a displaced threshold of 559 feet. The approach ended with the airplane contacting bushes and a fence located before the runway threshold.
Approach and Encounter with Down Draft
According to the CFI, as the airplane was on short final, it entered a down draft that greatly increased the sink rate. The CFI was about to order a go-around when the private pilot applied full engine power and raised the airplane's nose. Despite this action, the airplane struck the bushes and fence.
Witness Observation
A witness reported that the airplane appeared “low and slow” while on final approach. As it continued descending toward the fence preceding the runway, the witness observed the airplane “pitch up abruptly” and then suddenly pitch back down.
Wreckage Examination
An examination of the wreckage did not reveal any pre-impact malfunctions.
Weather Information
Winds recorded at an airport approximately 24 miles east of the accident site were from 240 degrees at 6 knots.