What happened
The pilot reported that he was conducting a landing operation toward the south when encountering a right-quartering headwind of approximately 20 knots. During the rollout phase on the runway, the wind conditions changed abruptly, shifting to a right-quartering tailwind accompanied by significant gusts. These gusts caused the aircraft's tail and right wing to lift off the ground momentarily. As a result, the aircraft departed from the right side of the runway.
After leaving the paved surface, the aircraft encountered a ditch. This impact resulted in the separation of the left main landing gear. The collapse of this gear led to further damage affecting the left wing structure.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the mechanical condition of the aircraft following the incident. Examination revealed that the left main landing gear had broken off due to the stress of striking the ditch after departing the runway. Damage was confirmed on the left wing as a direct consequence of the gear failure and subsequent impact.
Findings
- The pilot experienced a wind shift from a right-quartering headwind to a right-quartering tailwind during rollout.
- Large gusts associated with the wind shift raised the tail and right wing.
- The aircraft departed the runway on the right side.
- The left main landing gear broke off after encountering a ditch.
- Damage occurred to the left wing as a result of the landing gear failure.
Safety message
Pilots should be vigilant for sudden wind shifts and gusts during the critical rollout phase of landing, particularly when operating with quartering winds that can affect aircraft control and stability.