Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during landing in crosswind conditions.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that during the landing roll on runway 31, the airplane encountered a crosswind. He was unable to maintain directional control and the airplane departed the runway surface. The nose wheel subsequently collapsed and a post-crash fire erupted in the engine compartment. Inspection of the airplane found that the firewall sustained substantial damage. The reported winds at the time of the accident were 190 degrees at 10 knots gusting to 18 knots. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane at the time of the accident.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that during the landing roll on runway 31, the airplane encountered a crosswind. The pilot was unable to maintain directional control and the airplane departed the runway surface. The nose wheel subsequently collapsed and a post-crash fire erupted in the engine compartment. Inspection of the airplane found that the firewall sustained substantial damage. The reported winds at the time of the accident were 190 degrees at 10 knots gusting to 18 knots. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane at the time of the accident.