What happened
The accident occurred while the aircraft was attempting to land on runway 07. During the final approach and touchdown phase, the airplane bounced twice upon contact with the runway surface. In response to the bounce, the pilot applied additional power in an attempt to abort the landing and execute a go-around.
Following the application of power, the aircraft drifted to the right off the runway environment. The airplane subsequently struck trees located near the runway end. The impact caused the aircraft to come to rest entangled within the tree canopy. Meteorological data from an airport located approximately 20 miles south of the accident site indicated wind conditions from 340 degrees at 6 knots at the time of the event.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the circumstances surrounding the loss of control during the landing phase. Examination of the wreckage and witness reports confirmed that the initial bounce led to a decision to abort the landing. The subsequent drift to the right resulted in the collision with the trees. No mechanical failures were identified as contributing factors to the bounce or the subsequent drift.
Findings
The primary factor in this accident was the pilot's loss of directional control during the landing rollout and go-around initiation. The double bounce on touchdown compromised the aircraft's stability, leading to an uncontrolled drift into terrain. The wind conditions reported nearby were light and not considered a significant contributing factor to the loss of control.