Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate compensation for the wind conditions and failure to maintain directional control. Contributing to the accident was the crosswind was a factor.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was approaching his destination and listened to the automated weather observation system (AWOS) which indicated winds were from 230 degrees at 10 knots. The pilot landed on runway 16 and during the landing, the right wing lifted, and the airplane veered to the left of the runway into a field. As the airplane rolled through the field, the left main landing gear separated and the left wing impacted the ground, resulting in substantial damage. The airplane came to rest in a ditch. Following the accident, the pilot said that the wind was gusting. In his statement, the pilot noted that the airport guide indicates that pilots are authorized to land on the taxiway which runs northeast/southwest during crosswind conditions. The pilot felt that the 10-knot velocity of the wind did not warrant landing on the taxiway. The pilot did not report any mechanical malfunctions.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot was approaching his destination and listened to the automated weather observation system (AWOS) which indicated winds were from 230 degrees at 10 knots. The pilot landed on runway 16 and during the landing, the right wing lifted, and the airplane veered to the left of the runway into a field. As the airplane rolled through the field, the left main landing gear separated and the left wing impacted the ground, resulting in substantial damage. The airplane came to rest in a ditch. Following the accident, the pilot said that the wind was gusting. In his statement, the pilot noted that the an airport guide indicates that pilots are authorized to land on the taxiway which runs northeast/southwest during crosswind conditions. The pilot felt that the 10-knot velocity of the wind did not warrant landing on the taxiway. The pilot did not report any mechanical malfunctions.