What happened
While performing a final approach toward the runway at Galena Airport, the pilot attempted to execute a go-around procedure. At the time of the maneuver, the aircraft's flaps were set to the full down position. Following the decision to climb, the twin engine airplane began an ascent that transitioned into a sharp left-hand turn. The flight ended in a crash located near the threshold of the runway.
There were four fatalities among the occupants of the aircraft during the accident.
Findings
The investigation determined that the aircraft struck the ground during the go-around due to an uncommanded loss of control. Several factors contributed to the accident:
- The pilot failed to sustain the necessary airspeed for the maneuver
- Improper use of the flaps during the transition
- A potential failure of the right engine's magneto
- An unidentified power loss affecting the powerplant