Primary finding
Probable cause
Loss of directional control during landing with a tailwind.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, he decided to perform a downwind landing because the setting sun was shining directly down the active runway. During the landing, the airplane veered off track and the main landing gear sustained damage after striking a culvert. The pilot applied engine power and performed a go-around, and during the second landing attempt, the airplane veered off the runway and collided with bushes in the runway drop off. The wings and fuselage were substantially damaged. The pilot reported no preaccidentct mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.