Incident Overview
According to a report, the pilot was scanning terrain near an off-airport landing area in mountainous terrain. While turning, the aircraft encountered windshear and a downdraft. The pilot stated that the airplane descended 400 feet. He applied full power, but before recovery could be achieved, the left wing contacted the ground. The aircraft then cartwheeled and came to rest inverted.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that the wind was from 360 degrees at 30 knots, gusting to 35 knots. He also noted turbulence at the time of the accident. The sequence of events, as described by the pilot, involved a sudden loss of altitude due to the downdraft and windshear, followed by the wing strike and subsequent cartwheeling motion.
Weather Conditions
The pilot provided specific wind conditions: direction 360 degrees, sustained speed 30 knots with gusts up to 35 knots. Turbulence was also reported. These conditions were present during the maneuver near the mountainous landing area.