Accident Sequence
The private pilot reported 10 miles out, and again 5 miles from the airport, that he would be landing. There was no indication of any problems, and winds were light and variable at the time of the accident.
Witnesses at the airport observed the airplane at an altitude of 5 to 10 feet above the runway at midfield and fast on its approach. They were certain the left propeller was not turning, and they heard power being added to the right engine as the pilot initiated a go-around. They reported that the airplane went into a shallow nose-up pitch attitude and observed the landing gear retract.
At approximately 200 feet above ground level, the airplane started a left turn toward rising terrain, then pitched up to approximately 15 degrees and entered a 30-degree bank to the left before completing a roll and impacting terrain in an open pasture.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the left propeller was feathered, both main landing gear were extended, and the flaps were retracted. The reason for the left engine being shut down was not determined.
Weight and Balance
While it was calculated that the airplane was within its center of gravity limits for the flight, it was determined that upon arrival at the destination airport the aircraft was 160.4 pounds over its maximum gross certified weight.
Pilot Operating Handbook Warnings
According to the Pilot Operating Handbook, in the case of a one-engine-inoperative go-around, the pilot is warned that it may be impossible to control the airplane when a sudden application of power is made. The pilot is further warned that a one-engine go-around is not possible from the approach configuration unless sufficient altitude is available to raise the flaps and gear in a descent. Additionally, the pilot is cautioned that a one-engine go-around should be avoided if at all possible.