Introduction
An accident occurred when a pilot lost control of an airplane during a go-around after experiencing control difficulties on approach. The pilot had reported issues with the rudder pedal prior to the flight and in a previous flight.
Event Sequence
The pilot was on approach to land when the airplane became hard to control. He decided to troubleshoot the issue while airborne and initiated a go-around. The airplane lifted off the runway and began to climb, but then rapidly rolled to the right, then to the left, and impacted terrain.
Pilot's Report
The pilot described that the right rudder pedal was not functioning properly during taxi before the flight. He also had difficulty maintaining directional control during the approach. Additionally, the pilot stated that he had lost directional control due to a rudder anomaly during a flight several weeks prior to the accident.
Postaccident Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the airplane after the accident and confirmed that the wings had been substantially damaged. A detailed examination of the rudder control system revealed no evidence of a preaccident mechanical failure or malfunction that would have precluded normal operation.