Single-engine turboprop excursion during go-around

No fatalities • Gaithersburg, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

A single-engine turboprop aircraft veered off the runway and crashed into trees during a missed approach attempt following a landing attempt.

What happened

During an instrument flight rules (IFR) operation, the pilot of a single-engine turboprop cancelled the active flight plan after receiving clearance for a visual approach to the destination. While performing a left traffic pattern for runway 32, the aircraft crossed the threshold at 81 knots. Although the touchdown appeared normal, the stall warning horn activated during the process.

Following the landing attempt, the aircraft began drifting toward the left side of the asphalt runway. The pilot attempted to counteract this movement with right rudder input, but the drift continued. In response, the pilot initiated a go-around procedure. To avoid the risk of a torque roll at low airspeed, the pilot refrained from applying maximum power during the climb.

As the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 10 feet, it was positioned in a 20-degree left bank. The pilot applied full right aileron to correct the bank, but the aircraft subsequently descended in a left turn. The pilot reduced throttle and prepared for impact. The aircraft traveled roughly 100 feet beyond the left edge of the runway, where the nose entered mud before the aircraft came to a stop in a wooded area.

Findings

An investigation by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector found no evidence of mechanical failure prior to the accident, and the pilot reported no pre-existing malfunctions. At the time of the incident, wind conditions were recorded at 310 degrees with a steady 10 knots and gusts up to 15 knots. The primary factor in the loss of control was the inability to maintain directional control during the go-around maneuver.

Probable cause

The pilot's attempt to execute a go-around at low speed without full power led to a loss of control and subsequent descent into trees.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2010-03-01 Socata TBM-700 accident near Gaithersburg, United States of America?

A single-engine turboprop aircraft veered off the runway and crashed into trees during a missed approach attempt following a landing attempt.

Were there any fatalities in the 2010-03-01 Socata TBM-700 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2010-03-01 involved a Socata TBM-700, registration N700ZR, operated by Nova Aviation, at Gaithersburg, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's attempt to execute a go-around at low speed without full power led to a loss of control and subsequent descent into trees.

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