Airplane Then Encountered An Aerodynamic Stall While Banked About 45 Degrees, Which Continued To A 90-Degree Bank...

Location: Lafayette, Tennessee Accident Number: ERA24LA296
Date & Time: July 7, 2024, 16:35 Local Registration: N692BS
Aircraft: Missoula Aviation LLC Super Drifter Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control in flight Injuries: 1 Serious, 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis: The pilot and passenger reported that during the final approach to land, an unexpected gust of wind pushed the airplane toward the west side of the runway, near the precision approach path indicator lights and a hillside. As the pilot initiated a go-around, a stronger gust lifted the right wing, and the airplane rolled to the left. The airplane then encountered an aerodynamic stall while banked about 45 degrees, which continued to a 90-degree bank with a 45-degree nose-down pitch attitude. Due to the low altitude, the pilot was unable to recover, and the airplane impacted the airport ramp area, coming to rest inverted. The pilot was seriously injured and the airplane’s wings and fuselage were substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures of the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable Cause and Findings: The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be -- The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane during a go-around in gusting wind conditions.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov