Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain an appropriate airspeed during the landing approach, which resulted in exceedance of the critical angle of attack and an aerodynamic stall, during gusting wind conditions.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that on short final to a remote gravel airstrip, and just prior to touch down, a gust of wind made his approach feel unstable. The pilot attempted to abort the landing, but the wind gust decreased, and the airplane stalled and landed hard. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.