What happened
While flying at 2,000 feet above the airport, the pilot received instructions from the tower controller to complete several turns to establish a downwind pattern for runway 30. In an effort to expedite the landing due to an aircraft awaiting takeoff, the pilot attempted a low turn on final approach to line up with the runway. During this maneuver, the pilot lost control and the aircraft stalled.
A witness observed the aircraft gaining altitude and banking left while still climbing. The aircraft appeared to stall at approximately 400 feet and fell rapidly to the ground. The witness noted the airplane changed direction by 180 degrees but could not confirm if it was in a takeoff or landing phase. Following the impact, the female passenger was found disoriented at the scene.
The investigation
The FAA inspector determined the pilot was attempting an approach to runway 30 when the accident occurred. During the impact, the right wing and right main gear contacted the ground first, followed by the left main gear. The nose gear collapsed, causing the propeller assembly to strike the ground and depart from the aircraft. The aircraft continued along a debris path on its left main gear, nose cowling, and right fuselage, with evidence suggesting the aircraft may have bounced into the air for five to ten feet during the slide. The left wingtip struck the ground 160 feet down the debris path. The flap position indicator was found at 20 degrees.
Findings
- The pilot's turn was wide when attempting to salvage the landing.
- There were no mechanical failures or malfunctions of any aircraft systems prior to the accident.
- The impact resulted in one passenger injured.