Incident Overview
While practicing maneuvers near a grass airstrip, the left side of the aircraft's engine cowling opened. The pilot elected to perform a low pass to observe wind direction, followed by a precautionary landing at the airstrip.
Sequence of Events
After touchdown, the aircraft became airborne again and veered off the runway. It then collided with a dike and came to rest in an upright position.
Post-Accident Observations
The chief pilot of the flight school arrived at the scene approximately one hour after the accident. He reported a crosswind of 15 knots from 60 to 70 degrees relative to the runway, indicating significant crosswind conditions.
Investigation Findings
No mechanical failures or malfunctions were identified during the post-accident examination. The investigation did not establish a cause for the cowling opening or the subsequent loss of control.