Beech C23 N997V accident near South Bend, Indiana

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the airplane during a go around which resulted in an aerodynamic stall. Contributing to the accident was the loss of directional control during the landing roll.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, during the initial climb, about 200 to 300 ft above the ground, the pilot’s side door became unlatched. The pilot decided to return to the airport and land to close the door. Upon touchdown, the airplane veered to the right. The pilot attempted to correct with left rudder input, but the airplane continued to the right. He initiated a go-around but was unable to gain sufficient airspeed. The airplane stalled and impacted the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left aileron.

According to the pilot no mechanical failures or malfunctions were observed before the door opened during the initial climb.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN25LA382 for the full record.