Aircraft: Piper Cherokee Six. Injuries: None. Location: Palo Pinto, Texas. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The accident happened during an attempted go-around. The airplane drifted off the centerline and into trees off to the side of the runway.
The pilot told investigators that the airplane was close to stall speed during the go-around, and would not climb.
Investigators noted that had the pilot remained over the runway during the go-around he would have missed the trees.
It was also noted that flight near stall speed or a high pitch attitude provides a high drag condition, which results in reduced climb performance.
Probable cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control and a proper pitch attitude and airspeed while performing a go-around.
NTSB Identification: CEN12LA529
This August 2012 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
