Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot's failure to maintain bank control and adequate altitude during the approach, which resulted in his failure to maintain the runway heading and a subsequent collision with trees and terrain.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
The pilot reported that during approach, about 500ft above the ground and 81 knots he, "felt the descent rate increase significantly." The pilot increased engine power, but "the high rate of descent continued" and he increased the engine power further.
A slow left roll developed, and he applied full right aileron and full right rudder to arrest the left roll. Additionally, he reduced the engine power and the left roll stopped. The pilot regained control of the airplane, but the airplane's heading was 45° left of the runway heading and the airplane collided with mesquite trees and subsequently the terrain. The airplane caught fire and the pilot and passenger exited through the emergency exit.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to windscreens and fuselage.
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# GAA20CA013