Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to compensate for winds during the initial takeoff that resulted in the airplane colliding with the runway, exceeding the design limits of the aircraft and upon landing at the destination airport, the collapse of the main landing gear.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot experienced a downdraft at liftoff, during the initial takeoff, which resulted in the airplane settling back on the runway. He elected to continue the flight, since there was no indication of a landing gear problem. During the touchdown phase of the approach, at the destination airport, the right main landing gear and nose gear collapsed. The wreckage examination disclosed overload structural damage in the right wheel well and to the right wing consistent with damage sustained during a hard landing.
Source record
Factual narrative
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