NTSB Factual Report

The pilot reported that, during the approach to land on a gravel airstrip, he increased engine power to "extend the approach", the airplane pitched up in a nose high attitude, aerodynamically stalled and yawed to the right. Subsequently, the airplane impacted a snowbank to the right side of the airstrip. A postcrash fire destroyed the airplane.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot’s exceedance of the airplane’s critical angle of attack, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall.