Pilot Reports Low Approach Leading to Tree Strike and Hard Landing

Accident Overview

A pilot reported to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector that, while on final approach for landing, he descended the airplane too low, and the airplane's left wing contacted a tree. Following the tree strike, the airplane veered left and continued to descend before impacting the ground.

Damage and Examination

The accident resulted in substantial damage to both the left and right wings and the engine firewall. An postaccident examination conducted by the FAA inspector revealed no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airplane.

Pilot Report

The pilot's own account attributes the accident to descending too low during the final approach phase. No other contributing factors were identified in the inspector's examination.