Incident Overview
According to the pilot, the approach was conducted in wind conditions of 15 knots gusting to 20 knots. To compensate, the pilot employed an approach speed of approximately 98 to 102 miles per hour, higher than the usual 87 mph, and used full flaps. The pilot also sideslipped the aircraft to counteract the crosswind.
Sequence of Events
During the approach, the pilot noted a dirtbank approximately 15 to 20 feet high located short of the runway. As the aircraft flew over this dirtbank, it encountered a downdraft, resulting in a sudden loss of 30 feet of altitude. In the pilot's attempt to recover, the right main landing gear struck the dirtbank, causing the gear to separate from the aircraft.
Aftermath
The aircraft subsequently landed on the runway and slid to a stop. No additional details regarding injuries, damage, or other circumstances were provided in the source.