Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate compensation for the gusty crosswind condition and failure to maintain directional control during landing rollout.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he observed the uncontrolled airport's windsock as he approached runway 33 for landing. The wind direction varied between 290 and 330 degrees, and the speed varied between 10 and 15 knots. Two wind gusts were encountered as the pilot lowered the airplane's tail during rollout. The pilot took corrective action to compensate for the first gust, but when the second gust was encountered, he lost directional control. The airplane veered 40 to 50 feet off the runway. It came to a stop upon impacting a fence that punctured wing skin and fractured a rib. The pilot subsequently reported that his accident could have been prevented if, upon encountering the gusts, he had immediately increased engine power or performed a go-around.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that he observed the uncontrolled airport's windsock as he approached runway 33 for landing. The wind direction varied between 290 and 330 degrees, and the speed varied between 10 and 15 knots. Two wind gusts were encountered as the pilot lowered the airplane's tail during rollout. The pilot took corrective action to compensate for the first gust, but when the second gust was encountered, he lost directional control. The airplane veered 40 to 50 feet off the runway. It came to a stop upon impacting a fence that punctured wing skin and fractured a rib. The pilot subsequently reported that his accident could have been prevented if, upon encountering the gusts, he had immediately increased engine power or performed a go-around.