Flight Details
The pilot stated that the airplane's owner requested he fly the aircraft to a mechanic for a deep inspection, but no specific mechanical issues were mentioned. During the preflight inspection, the pilot noted nothing abnormal. During initial taxi, he observed that the airplane required more power than usual, but the brakes and flight controls functioned normally.
Approach and Landing
While approaching a 2,300 ft grass airstrip at about 60 knots with full flaps, the pilot reduced power to idle to flare. The airplane continued to float. Near midfield, the pilot noticed that the engine RPM had increased to approximately 1,000–1,200 RPM despite the throttle being at idle. He retracted the flaps to 15° to initiate a go-around, but before he could increase power, the airplane touched down on the runway.
Evasive Maneuvers
The pilot intended to continue the go-around but realized the airplane would be unable to clear power lines and trees at the end of the runway. He applied hard braking but could not stop on the grass. He then shut off the fuel pump and closed the mixture, but the engine did not stop, and the airplane continued due to momentum. He applied full brakes while performing an S-turn and a 180° turn. The airplane slid on the grass, and the left wing struck a wooden pole. The airplane came to an abrupt stop, after which the pilot observed that the engine and propeller had stopped.
Post-Accident
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. A Federal Aviation Administration inspector attempted to examine the engine but reported that the airplane was unavailable for inspection. The manufacturer's prescribed go-around checklist includes: throttle full, carburetor heat off, flaps retract to 20°, and Vy at 79 KIAS, with flaps then retracted procedurally.
Pilot Comment
The pilot, who was very familiar with the airport, stated his belief that the accident was due to mechanical failure.