Accident Details
A 19-year-old private pilot and three passengers were onboard a Cessna 172P, carrying 40 gallons of fuel, after a 30-minute flight. The aircraft was on final approach to runway 36. According to the pilot, everything "seemed normal" until the airplane was approximately 50 feet above ground level (agl). The pilot reported feeling as though "wind gusts were pushing me off the runway to the left."
Go-Around and Stall
The pilot initiated a go-around by pushing in the throttle, raising the flaps one notch, and gradually increasing the airplane's pitch attitude. The pilot stated that the airplane did not respond and continued to lose altitude. The airplane stalled and subsequently nosed over when the propeller impacted the terrain about 20 feet from the runway.
Occupant Status
The pilot and passengers exited the airplane through the front windshield. No injuries were reported.
Airport Manager's Observations
The airport manager reported that the airport office was closed, as it was after 5 PM. He was walking dogs when he observed the airplane approaching from the south and landing on runway 36, despite winds being from the south. The manager noted that the pilot attempted a go-around when the airplane was about 15 feet agl. He observed that the airplane stalled as it attempted to climb at low airspeed with a tailwind component. The aircraft impacted the terrain and nosed over. The occupants had already exited the airplane by the time the manager arrived with a fire extinguisher. Upon returning to the office, he noted winds were 220 degrees at 12 knots. The accident occurred at 1710. The manager reported that the airport's wind "T" and windsock were visible to the pilot.
Pilot's Reflection
The pilot reported that the accident could have been prevented had he known the exact weather and forecast weather en route and at the destination, thoroughly calculated the weight and balance for the flight, made quicker and smarter decisions, and ensured the carburetor heat was off on final approach.