Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing due to an encounter with sun glare.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that after an uneventful local flight, he was blinded by the sun as it suddenly appeared through the clouds during the landing flare. Subsequently, the airplane exited the runway into a ditch, substantially damaging the left wing and fuselage. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions prior to the accident.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that after an uneventful local flight, he was blinded by the sun as it suddenly appeared through the clouds during the landing flare. Subsequently, the airplane exited the runway into a ditch, substantially damaging the left wing and fuselage. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions prior to the accident.