Flight and Approach
The pilot of a single-engine turboprop was conducting an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight and cancelled the IFR clearance after being cleared for a visual approach to the destination airport. The pilot flew a left traffic pattern for runway 32, which measures 4,202 feet long and 75 feet wide and is asphalt. The reported wind around the time of the event was from 310 degrees at 10 knots, gusting to 15 knots.
Landing and Drift
The pilot reported that the airplane crossed the runway threshold at 81 knots and touched down normally, with the stall warning horn sounding. After touchdown, the airplane began to drift left. The pilot attempted to correct the drift with right rudder input, but the airplane continued moving leftward on the runway.
Go-Around Attempt
In response to the drift, the pilot initiated a go-around. Aware of the risk of torque roll at low speeds, the pilot did not apply full power. The airplane climbed to about 10 feet above the ground, at which time it was in a 20-degree left bank. The pilot applied full right aileron input to correct the bank. The airplane then descended in a left turn, and the pilot retarded the throttle and braced for impact.
Outcome and Examination
According to a Federal Aviation Administration inspector, the airplane traveled about 100 feet off the left side of the runway, nosed down in mud, and came to rest in trees. Examination of the wreckage by the inspector revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions, and the pilot did not report any. The official probable cause for the event was the pilot’s failure to maintain aircraft control while performing a go-around.