Accident Sequence
During the landing attempt on a 2,250-foot-long runway, the pilot initiated a go-around approximately halfway down the runway because the airspeed was too fast. At 80 knots, the pilot raised the airplane's nose. At 70 knots, he retracted the flaps, after which the airplane began to sink. The pilot then raised the landing gear before the airplane contacted trees about 400 feet from the departure end of the runway. The airplane came to rest upright at the base of a tree, and a fire broke out.
Pilot Report and Examination
The pilot reported no engine problems during the flight. Examination of the engine revealed no mechanical malfunctions.
Relevant Guidance
The FAA Airplane Flying Handbook states that a sudden and complete retraction of flaps at very low airspeed can cause a loss of lift, potentially resulting in the airplane settling to the ground.