Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane while landing in gusting wind conditions.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
According to the pilot, the airplane encountered a strong gust of wind during takeoff that pushed the airplane to the left of the landing strip. After departing the landing strip, the nose gear collapsed, which resulted in substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot reported the wind at the airstrip around the time of the accident to be from 270 degrees at 10 knots with gusts at 20 knots.
Source record
Factual narrative
According to the pilot, the airplane encountered a strong gust of wind that pushed the airplane to the left of the landing strip. Upon leaving the landing strip the nose gear collapsed resulting in substantial damage to the airplane. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot reported the wind based on a wind sock at the airstrip around the time of the accident to be from 270 degrees at 10 knots with gusts at 20 knots.