Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain control of the airplane while landing in gusting winds.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The private pilot and her husband, who was also a private pilot, were attempting to land their single-engine airplane at a private grass strip in gusting wind conditions. The husband, who was flying the airplane, made an approach to runway 18, but elected to go around. While climbing out, a gust of wind caught the right wing and tipped the airplane up. The pilot was unable to maintain altitude and the right wing struck an embankment and the landing gear broke off. Both pilots reported that there were no premishap mechanical deficiencies. The wind at the time of the accident was reported to be out of the south at 17 knots, gusting to 25 knots.
Source record
Factual narrative
The private pilot and her husband, who was also a private pilot, were attempting to land their single-engine airplane at a private grass strip in gusting wind conditions. The husband, who was flying the airplane, made an approach to runway 18, but elected to go around. While climbing out, a gust of wind caught the right wing and tipped the airplane up. The pilot was unable to maintain altitude and the right wing struck an embankment and the landing gear broke off. Both pilots reported that there were no premishap mechanical deficiencies. The wind at the time of the accident was reported to be out of the south at 17 knots, gusting to 25 knots.