23 Oct 2016: YAKOVLEV YAK 55M

23 Oct 2016: YAKOVLEV YAK 55M — Unknown operator

No fatalities • Tracy, CA, United States

Probable cause

The pilot’s unstabilized approach and delayed application of full throttle for a go-around, which resulted in an uncontrolled descent.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot of the high performance airplane reported that on his third simulated forced landing, while turning left base to final in a slip, he realized that the airplane was too low, and not aligned with the runway. He applied full throttle to go-around. The airplane responded suddenly by changing attitude, but continued to descend and impacted terrain and the airport perimeter fence. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage.

The pilot further reported that the slow airspeed coupled with the unexpected high torque from advancing the throttle during an uncoordinated left turn were factors in the accident.

The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Contributing factors

  • cause Descent/approach/glide path — Not attained/maintained
  • cause Pilot
  • cause Pilot
  • Contributed to outcome

Conditions

Weather
VMC, wind 280/04kt, vis 10sm

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