N7780NPiper PA-28-180 · 1968

The pilot reported that the he was conducting practice instrument approaches under visual flight rules with a safety pilot at the time of the accident. After the fourth approach, they elected to land instead of conducting an instrument approach. The safety pilot assumed control of the airplane so that the pilot could prepare for landing. The airplane ended up on a “very close-in base leg” that resulted in the airplane being high on final approach. The pilot took control of the airplane from the safety pilot and elected to continue the landing. The pilot reported that the conditions, including a strong right crosswind, resulted in the airplane touching down on the left side of the runway. The pilot elected to execute a go-around and applied full engine power. The airplane did not respond as expected and it made an unintended left turn, subsequently impacting the ground in the grass area adjacent to the runway. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions associated with the airplane prior to the accident. In addition, a postaccident examination conducted by Federal Aviation Administration inspectors did not reveal any anomalies consistent with a preimpact failure or malfunction.