Overview
An accident occurred when a pilot, operating a sightseeing tour flight in southern Utah, attempted a landing and subsequent go-around at an airport characterized by a 1,000-foot cliff located about 400 feet from the runway end. The aircraft was one of four in a formation carrying revenue passengers on an organized tour.
Flight Details
According to the airplane's operator, the aircraft was part of a group of four airplanes conducting a sightseeing tour for revenue passengers. The operation took place in a high density altitude environment. The airport's Airguide Publications Airport Manual specified that all landings should be made on the runway heading toward the cliff, while all takeoffs should be made on the runway heading away from the cliff. Additionally, the manual stated that a go-around during landing was not possible.
Accident Sequence
During the approach, the pilot encountered variable wind and downdrafts. As the aircraft entered the landing flare, it dropped hard onto the runway and bounced back into the air. The pilot then immediately initiated a go-around and began a turn away from the runway heading. While executing the turn, the pilot was most likely unable to maintain sufficient airspeed, leading the airplane to enter a stall/mush condition and descend into the ground.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the accident was the pilot's decision to initiate a go-around after a bounced landing at an airport where go-arounds were not advised and his failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the go-around.