NTSB Factual Report

According to the pilot, he positioned his airplane to land in an area on a lake with light ripples. During the landing attempt, the airplane bounced and the pilot attempted to continue the landing instead of immediately initiating a go around. The pilot stated that he then elected to perform a go around; however, there was not enough room to clear the trees at the end of the lake. The airplane subsequently impacted the tree line and came to rest.

Post-accident examination of the airplane revealed that both wing leading edges and the empennage incurred substantial damage. The pilot did not report any pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's improper landing flare resulting in a bounced landing and his delay in performing a go around which resulted in a collision with trees.