Crash of a Piper PA-61 Aerostar (Ted Smith 601) in Montezuma: 1 killed

Date & Time: Jun 24, 1983 at 1140 LT
Registration:
N727NM
Flight Type:
Survivors:
No
Schedule:
Van Wert - Montezuma
MSN:
61-0276-106
YOM:
1976
Crew on board:
1
Crew fatalities:
Pax on board:
0
Pax fatalities:
Other fatalities:
Total fatalities:
1
Captain / Total flying hours:
5500
Captain / Total hours on type:
1217.00
Aircraft flight hours:
1227
Circumstances:
When the pilot arrived at the destination airport, there was construction on the runway, about 2500 feet from the approach end. He contacted Unicom and was advised that the runway was closed, but was told he could land on the grass beside the runway. The pilot responded that the grass area was too rough. He stated, 'I think I can land on the runway available, there seems to be enough length there.' Subsequently, the aircraft was observed approaching runway 08 at an estimated 30 feet agl with the gear and flaps down. Reportedly, the power was increased, the nose assumed a climb attitude and the gear was retracted. The aircraft then rolled left, dove to the ground and crashed. An exam of the wreckage revealed no evidence of a preimpact part failure or malfunction. An evaluation of this make and model of aircraft revealed that when the cg approached the aft limit, and the flaps were extended, the aircraft had reduced yaw and roll controllability during power on stalls. The flaps were found full down. The pilot, sole on board, was killed.
Probable cause:
Occurrence #1: loss of control - in flight
Phase of operation: go-around (VFR)
Findings
1. (f) planned approach - improper - pilot in command
2. Go-around - initiated - pilot in command
3. (f) raising of flaps - not performed - pilot in command
4. (c) airspeed (VMC) - not maintained - pilot in command
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Occurrence #2: in flight collision with terrain/water
Phase of operation: go-around (VFR)
Final Report: