Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing in gusty crosswind conditions.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was landing at a private dirt airstrip in gusting crosswind conditions. He reported that when he flared to land, the wind reversed; the airplane subsequently swerved and collided with a dirt berm. The collision resulted in substantial damage to both wings and horizontal stabilizer. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operations.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot was landing at a private dirt airstrip in gusting crosswind conditions. He reported that when he flared to land, the winds reversed; the airplane subsequently swerved and collided with a dirt berm. The collision resulted in substantial damage to both wings and horizontal stabilizer. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operations.