Accident Details
On July 21, 2012, at approximately 1115 central daylight time, a Beech A24R, registration N9720Q, was substantially damaged when it struck terrain while on approach to Clark Airport (5TE8) in Miami, Texas. The pilot, who was also the sole occupant and operator, reported sustaining serious injuries. The flight was conducted under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight, and visual meteorological conditions prevailed. No flight plan was filed. The local flight had originated from 5TE8 at about 1025.
Pilot Account
According to the pilot, he was returning from a local flight over his ranch at the time of the accident. During the landing flare, at approximately 30 feet above ground level, the airplane began a turn to the right. The pilot stated that he was unable to maintain control and that he had no aileron control during the accident sequence. The airplane subsequently impacted the ground, and a postimpact fire ensued.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination conducted by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector confirmed flight control continuity from each control surface to the cockpit area. However, the cockpit control yoke was consumed by the postimpact fire, preventing a positive determination of flight control continuity at the time of the accident.