On August 29, 2022, at about 1717 local time, a Piper PA-28R-180 Cheokee Arrow, N3768T, sustained substantial damage when it was involved in an accident at William H Morse State Airport (DDH/KDDH), Bennington, Vermont. The sole pilot onboard was seriously injured.

The pilot reported that he was on approach for landing with variable wind conditions; however, METAR data showed there was a crosswind at the time of the accident. He further stated that he “flared early, got slow, attempted a go around and ended up in a full power stall.” The airplane collided with terrain near the approach end of the runway. Airport surveillance video supports the pilot’s account of the accident. The Federal Aviation Administration inspector who examined the wreckage reported that there was substantial damage to the forward fuselage and both wings. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane.

Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain airspeed during a go-around, resulting in an aerodynamic stall, loss of control, and collision with terrain.

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