Accident Details
An airplane was damaged when it impacted the ground while performing a GPS approach in instrument weather conditions. The accident occurred during the third attempt at the approach.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that the runway was sighted at about 3/4 of a mile at the minimum descent altitude (MDA). The runway lights were in sight, and the pilot had a clear view of the runway. According to the pilot, everything appeared normal until just before the accident. As the airplane neared the runway, it became apparent that the runway was rising in the window. The pilot added power to stop the descent, but there was a significant delay in the engine response—much longer than normal. The engine eventually spooled up, and at that moment, a gust lifted the right wing, causing the left wing to drop. The pilot corrected, but there was not enough altitude, and the left wing impacted the ground.
Engine Performance
Prior to the flight, the engine had undergone a compressor wash. The pilot noted that engine parameters were logged during the flight and indicated the engine was performing as it should.
Weather Conditions
The minimum descent altitude for the approach was 364 feet above the airport elevation. The Automated Weather Observing System at the destination airport recorded sky condition as 200 feet overcast with visibility of 1½ statute miles. Winds were from 080 degrees at 3 knots.
Aircraft Examination
No preexisting anomalies were found with respect to the aircraft.