Aircraft accident during go-around attempt near airport trees

No fatalities • Folkston-Davis Field, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced a loss of control during a go-around maneuver following an approach to a destination runway, resulting in a ground impact and fire.

What happened

During the final stages of an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight, the pilot attempted to land on a runway measuring 2,500 feet in length and 50 feet in width. Following the landing flare, the aircraft's nose pitched upward as it descended below the height of the surrounding tree line. In response to the situation, the pilot attempted a go-around procedure to regain altitude.

However, the aircraft failed to achieve the necessary climb rate and began drifting toward the left side of the runway area. As the plane moved toward the trees, the left wing dropped, leading to a ground impact. The collision resulted in a post-impact fire and caused substantial damage to both the fuselage and the left wing.

Findings

An investigation of the wreckage and statements from the crew indicated that there were no mechanical malfunctions present on the aircraft prior to the impact that would have prevented standard operation.

Probable cause

The aircraft failed to climb during a go-around maneuver, leading to a lateral drift and subsequent impact with the ground.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2025-04-10 Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class) accident near Folkston-Davis Field, United States of America?

An aircraft experienced a loss of control during a go-around maneuver following an approach to a destination runway, resulting in a ground impact and fire.

Were there any fatalities in the 2025-04-10 Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2025-04-10 involved a Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class), registration N179ST, operated by Axis Label, at Folkston-Davis Field, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft failed to climb during a go-around maneuver, leading to a lateral drift and subsequent impact with the ground.

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