Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control and a proper pitch attitude and airspeed while performing a go-around.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was performing a go-around when the airplane impacted trees off the east side of and about 1/3 of the distance down the runway. The pilot stated that the airplane did not attain a climb rate to clear the trees and that he flew the airplane at an airspeed close to stall. The pilot did not fly over the remaining runway, which would have provided obstacle clearance to a safe altitude. Also, flight near stall speed or a high pitch attitude provides a high drag condition, which results in reduced climb performance. Examination of the airplane revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12LA529 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 7, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Palo Pinto, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Sportsman'S World Airport (TA65)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA32RT
- N-number
- N36103
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.