Accident Overview
A private pilot, flying solo on a personal cross-country flight under Title 14, CFR Part 91, attempted to land on a beach. The pilot reported that during the landing rollout, he was not satisfied with the feel of the terrain and elected to abort the landing by adding power. During the aborted landing, the airplane struck debris and subsequently impacted terrain, resulting in substantial damage.
Pilot Statements
In a written statement, the pilot indicated that he should have better surveyed the landing area prior to landing and should have formulated a more effective exit plan. He stated that there were no known mechanical issues with the airplane before the accident. The pilot noted that the propeller and the left main landing gear were damaged during the event.
Damage Details
The airplane incurred substantial damage. According to the mechanic who performed post-accident repairs, in addition to the propeller and left main landing gear damage, two nose ribs in the left wing's leading edge were repaired or replaced, and the left wingtip bow was also repaired or replaced. The left lift strut was replaced at the owner's request.
Investigation
The National Transportation Safety Board investigator-in-charge interviewed the mechanic via telephone. No further details about the investigation or the aircraft's make, model, or registration were provided.