What happened
The pilot reported that during the final approach for landing, the aircraft encountered a significant downdraft. This weather condition caused an unexpected increase in the aircraft's rate of descent. In response to the situation, the pilot applied additional power to arrest the sink rate and maintain altitude.
Despite these corrective actions, the left main landing gear struck a fence post located approximately 10 feet short of the runway threshold. The impact caused the gear to fail. Subsequently, when the aircraft touched down on the remaining gear, it settled onto its left wing, resulting in further damage to the airframe.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the landing gear failure and subsequent fuselage damage. Examination confirmed that the initial impact with the fence post was the primary cause of the structural failure of the left main gear. The subsequent settling onto the wing was a direct consequence of this gear collapse.
Findings
Contributing factors included the encounter with a downdraft during the critical phase of flight and the location of the fence post near the runway end. The pilot's application of power was an appropriate response to the increased descent rate, but it was insufficient to prevent the gear from striking the obstacle.
Safety message
Pilots should be aware of the potential for localized downdrafts during final approach and ensure adequate clearance over obstacles near the runway threshold. Proper energy management is essential to maintain control and avoid ground contact with structures.