Incident Overview
A pilot who lacked a valid pilot certificate flew his unregistered airplane for approximately two hours on a recreational flight before attempting to land at a privately owned airport. The pilot reported that the airplane was scheduled for an annual inspection at that location.
Approach and Go-Around
During the final approach, the pilot stated that a gust of wind pushed the airplane off course, prompting him to initiate a go-around. Shortly thereafter, the airplane stalled and impacted a field short of the runway.
Damage and Inspection
The impact caused substantial damage to the firewall and empennage. Although the pilot did not report an engine failure, a post-accident examination revealed that both fuel tanks were empty. Additionally, damage to the propeller was consistent with it not rotating at the time of impact.
Pilot and Medical History
The pilot did not possess a valid Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) medical certificate and had a reported history of a stroke. According to the pilot's daughter, her father was beginning to show symptoms of Sundowner's Syndrome.
Mechanical Findings
The pilot reported that there were no mechanical deficiencies that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane and engine.