Pilot Debrief

PIPER/CUB CRAFTERS PA-18-150 near Eagle Bay, NY — 2013-08-02

Final reportERA13CA353
Sign in to save
Date
2013-08-02
Location
Eagle Bay, NY, USA
Aircraft
PIPER/CUB CRAFTERS PA-18-150
Registration
N555AX
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to set the engine throttle to full power during a go-around.

NTSB narrative

The pilot of the amphibian airplane reported that she was flying a visual approach to a lake, over mountainous terrain. On an approximate 3/4 mile final approach to the lake, she observed a boat near her intended landing area and performed a go-around to circle for another approach. During the go-around and turn, the pilot did not move the throttle lever to full power. About one-fourth through the turn, she noticed the airplane was descending and increased engine power. The airplane continued to descend and she increased engine power a second time; however, one of the airplane's floats contacted a tree and the airplane impacted the ground. The pilot further stated that the accident could have been prevented if she had flown a higher approach and increased the throttle to full engine power immediately during the go-around. Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed substantial damage to the wings and the fuselage. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions with the airplane and the inspector did not observe any.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 4 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents4

Related mishaps