Incident Overview
A pilot on approach to a mesa-top airport reported encountering adverse weather conditions and wind shear, culminating in a stall warning and a landing that involved a 30-foot slide.
Approach and Weather Conditions
While approximately 10 miles south of the airport, the pilot observed scattered clouds, virga, rain, and lightning approaching. Communication from UNICOM indicated wind from the north at 20 knots. The airplane subsequently entered precipitation and encountered a downdraft. The pilot recovered by applying moderate engine power and maintaining a high and fast profile.
Encounter with Wind Shear
Continuing the approach to Runway 1, the airplane entered a vertical wind shear and lost several hundred feet. The pilot noted that the airplane descended below the airport elevation, as the airport sits atop a mesa. In response, the pilot added full power and pulled the nose up.
Final Approach and Landing
The airplane cleared boulders and trees at the edge of the mesa, after which the stall warning activated. Two passengers and a witness reported that the airplane stalled. The airplane then struck the runway and slid 30 feet before coming to a halt.