What happened
The pilot was conducting a landing operation on runway 17 when directional control of the aircraft was compromised. According to the report, the pilot encountered significant wind conditions, specifically a left quartering headwind estimated at 25 knots with gusts reaching 35 knots. These winds likely contributed to the loss of control during the final phase of the approach.
As the aircraft touched down or shortly thereafter, it veered off the right side of the runway. The aircraft became airborne again briefly after leaving the paved surface. During this uncontrolled excursion, the right wing dragged along the ground. The aircraft then spun around and slid backward into a cluster of small trees and terrain features adjacent to the runway environment.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the departure from the runway. Key findings included the pilot's report of the specific wind conditions at the time of the incident. The physical evidence indicated that the aircraft had left the runway surface on the right side and subsequently impacted trees after an uncontrolled slide.
Findings
The primary factor in this accident was the loss of directional control during the landing phase. The strong crosswind component, reported as a left quartering headwind with significant gusts, played a critical role in the aircraft's inability to maintain runway alignment. The subsequent collision with trees and terrain resulted from the aircraft's departure from the designated runway area.