Accident Overview
A tail wheel airplane was involved in an accident while attempting to land on a 600-foot turf surface. The pilot reported that he overflew the intended landing site three times to assess its suitability before initiating the landing.
Landing Attempt and Go-Around
During the touchdown, the airplane bounced. The pilot then initiated a go-around, reducing the flaps to 10°, turning the carburetor heat off, and applying full throttle. The pilot stated he could not recall the airspeed or trim position during this maneuver.
Descent and Impact
The airplane did not climb as expected and touched down in a ravine just beyond the initial landing area. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the forward left side of the fuselage.
Pilot Report
According to the National Transportation Safety Board Pilot Aircraft Accident Report, the pilot indicated that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot also expressed that the accident could have been prevented with more training in high altitude takeoffs and landings, as well as go-around techniques in bush planes.