Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's inadvertent movement of the throttle control during landing, which resulted in an increase in power and excursion from the runway.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he maintained a higher-than-normal approach speed due to the gusty wind conditions. Upon touchdown, the airplane bounced back airborne and the pilot's knee inadvertently moved the throttle control forward, increasing the engine power. Shortly after he realized that the airplane was accelerating between his applications of brakes. The airplane continued off the end of the airstrip and impacted a ditch, resulting in substantial damage to the right wing.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported he maintained a higher than normal approach speed due to the gusty wind conditions. He applied flaps just prior to touching down, and the airplane bounced. The pilot reported that when the airplane bounced, he hit the throttle with his knee and did not realize it until he recognized that the airplane was accelerating between brake applications. The airplane continued off the end of the airstrip where it contacted a ditch resulting in substantial damage to the right wing.