Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control in gusting crosswind conditions.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he had landed in gusting wind conditions with 40° of flaps extended, when during the landing roll as the airplane reached the taxiway, a wind gust lifted the right wing, and the left wing struck the ground. After several seconds the right wing lowered, and he taxied the airplane to the ramp. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. At the time of the accident, the pilot had landed on runway 08R and was about to turn onto taxiway A4 with the wind from the southeast at 11 knots with gusts to 26 knots. The pilot reported that he should have been proactive in utilizing the ailerons for crosswind control, and that he should have raised the flaps sooner.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot stated that he completed a landing in gusting wind conditions with 40° of flaps extended. During the landing roll as the airplane reached the taxiway, a wind gust lifted the right wing and the left wing struck the ground. After several seconds the right wing lowered and he taxied to the ramp. He added that there no mechanical malfunctions with the airplane. The pilot recommended that he should have been proactive in utilizing the ailerons for crosswind control, and that he should have raised the flaps sooner.