Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from a commercial airliner which resulted in an encounter with wake turbulence and subsequent loss of control resulting in impact with terrain.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the airplane reported being cleared to land by air traffic control and cautioned of wake turbulence from a commercial airliner that landed prior. While on final approach to land, the airplane encountered wake turbulence and the airplane’s left was pushed up. The pilot corrected with full aileron deflection as the right wing contacted the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right aileron. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.