Accident Overview
On the day of the accident, a private pilot with 75 hours of flight experience, who also owned the airplane, planned a simulated low-approach to an open area on his property where he intended to build a grass airstrip. The pilot reported that he had no intention of landing and intended to execute a go-around, then continue to his destination.
Flight Details
As the pilot approached the field from the south, he extended one notch of flaps and reduced the throttle to idle. He did not activate the carburetor heat. When the airplane was on final approach at approximately 200 feet above ground level, the pilot added power to initiate the go-around, but the engine did not respond and power remained at idle. Unable to maintain altitude, the airplane landed short of the field, colliding with a fence and tree stumps.
Post-Accident Conditions
The pilot stated that when the airplane touched down, the engine regained full power, but he immediately reduced the throttle to idle to prevent further damage. Both the pilot and passenger were able to exit the airplane without assistance and were not injured. The wings sustained structural damage.
Investigation Findings
According to the pilot, he had owned the airplane for approximately seven months and had experienced no previous engine problems. At the time of the accident, the temperature was 37 degrees Fahrenheit and the dew point was 21 degrees Fahrenheit. The reason for the intermittent loss of engine power could not be determined.