Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane while landing with a crosswind, resulting in the runway excursion and nose over.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that the primary runway was closed for repairs, so he elected to use a runway with a 6 to 8 knot crosswind. Also, there were workers and equipment near the runway and the pilot stated that they were a distraction. After touchdown, he felt the crosswind push the airplane to the right, but he overcompensated with left rudder. The airplane was then headed toward the edge of the runway and a construction barricade. He applied brakes; however, he could not bring the airplane to a stop on the runway surface. The airplane departed the runway and nosed over in the grass. The pilot was not injured. An inspector with the Federal Aviation Administration examined the wreckage and determined that the airplane’s vertical stabilizer and rudder were substantially damaged during the accident. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.