Accident Overview
A commercial certificated pilot was landing a wheel-equipped airplane at an off-airport site surrounded by trees during a personal flight conducted under Title 14, CFR Part 91. During the landing flare, the pilot inadvertently allowed the airplane to drift to the left. The left wing then struck a stand of trees, which pivoted the airplane to the left. The airplane subsequently collided with the ground.
Damage and Conditions
The accident resulted in structural damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage. The pilot noted that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane. No weather conditions, time of day, or ATC involvement were reported in the investigation source.
Sequence of Events
The approach and landing were conducted at an off-airport site, which was surrounded by trees. As the pilot initiated the landing flare, the airplane began to drift left. The pilot did not correct this drift, and the left wing contacted a stand of trees. The impact with the trees caused the airplane to pivot further left before it struck the ground.
Investigation Findings
The investigation did not identify any mechanical failures or malfunctions that contributed to the accident. The pilot's actions during the flare were noted as the primary event leading to the collision with trees.