Accident Summary
A solo commercial pilot conducting a personal flight under Title 14, CFR Part 91 was landing at a remote off-airport site when the airplane nosed down and collided with terrain. The accident occurred during the approach, approximately 100 feet above ground level. The airplane struck the ground in a near-vertical attitude, resulting in substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage.
Events Prior to the Accident
Earlier that day, the pilot had hiked about 1 mile to the accident airplane to disassemble a previous campsite, load the camp items into the airplane, and then reposition the airplane closer to the location where he had shot a caribou. The pilot subsequently prepared to land at the intended site.
Witness Account
A witness reported that the pilot made a series of low passes over the intended landing site before initiating the accident approach.
Pilot Statement
In a written statement to the NTSB, the pilot noted that the last thing he could recall was being on final approach to the site, but he had no recollection of the accident itself. The pilot also stated that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane.