Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing, in gusting crosswind conditions.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, during the landing flare, the airplane encountered a crosswind gust. The airplane drifted to the right about 10°, and while correcting with rudder the left main landing gear touched down. The airplane veered to the left, exited the runway, and struck a ditch, which substantially damaged the fuselage and both wings. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. At the time of the accident, the pilot was landing on runway 35L with wind from 300° at 14 knots, gusting 18 knots.