Incident Overview
A pilot reported that he departed from his private airstrip for a local area flight. Noticing thunderstorms approaching and increasing winds, he decided to return to the airstrip for landing. During final approach, he observed that children had left a gate open, allowing his miniature donkeys to cross the runway. The pilot added power to initiate a go-around, but the airplane failed to climb.
Collision with Terrain
The airplane then encountered a downdraft and collided vertically with trees and the ground. The pilot stated that the aircraft would not climb after adding power for the go-around. The accident sequence involved a loss of altitude due to the downdraft, leading to impact with obstacles and terrain.
Post-Accident Examination
A thorough examination of the airframe, flight controls, engine assembly, and accessories revealed no anomalies. All components were found to be functional and without pre-existing defects. The cause of the inability to climb was not attributable to mechanical failure.
Weather Conditions
Weather radar data indicated that the area directly above the accident site was associated with dissipating echoes. These echoes were decreasing in area coverage and intensity over time, implying a dissipating rain shower. Such conditions are typical of prevailing downdraft activity, which can produce sudden downward air movements.
Conclusion
The pilot's decision to return and the presence of animals on the runway necessitated a go-around, but the aircraft encountered a downdraft that prevented a successful climb, resulting in a collision with trees and the ground. No mechanical issues were found that could have contributed to the incident.