What happened
The pilot was aware of significant crosswind conditions while attempting to land on runway 13. Wind data indicated a direction from 180 degrees at 20 knots, with gusts reaching 30 knots. As the aircraft rolled down the runway, a sudden wind gust lifted the right wing. This aerodynamic shift caused the airplane to slowly veer to the left.
In response to the deviation, the pilot added power and attempted to lift the airplane into the air while initiating a left turn. However, the wind gust subsided rapidly. The aircraft dropped back to the ground, making initial contact on the left landing gear. The nose then pitched forward violently.
The impact sequence continued as the left propeller and wing tip struck the ground. This initiated a cartwheel motion to the left side of the aircraft. During this uncontrolled rotation, the nose, right propeller, and remaining landing gear sustained additional contact with the surface. The airplane eventually came to rest in a position 180 degrees from its original landing runway heading.
The investigation
The pilot provided a detailed account of the events leading up to the incident. He confirmed that he was fully aware of the strong crosswind conditions prior to and during the landing attempt. The narrative focused on the immediate aerodynamic effects of the wind gusts on the aircraft's stability during the rollout phase.
Findings
The primary factor in this event was the interaction between the aircraft and turbulent wind conditions during a critical phase of flight. The pilot's decision to continue the landing despite known strong crosswinds, followed by an aborted attempt mid-rollout, contributed to the loss of directional control. The sudden cessation of the gust while the aircraft was partially airborne likely exacerbated the drop onto the left gear.