Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot’s failure to maintain an adequate approach path at night, which resulted in a tree strike.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The pilot reported that, on final approach at night, while speaking with the control tower, the left horizontal stabilizer struck a tree. The pilot added full power, pitched up, the airplane yawed left, and he resumed final approach. The airplane landed without further incident.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left horizontal stabilizer.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA18CA243