Right Wing Separation During Convective Weather Encounter (N55120)

Incident Overview and Weather Conditions A non-instrument rated private pilot was operating an aircraft when the right wing separated due to overload. The incident occurred as the pilot attempted to maneuver the airplane under a line of convective activity along the route of flight. Prior to departure, the pilot received weather briefings that included thunderstorm and rain shower activity, with VFR flight not recommended. During the flight, the pilot contacted flight watch and reported a rain squall along the route. The pilot was briefed that rain showers and thunderstorms were moving in from the coastline, with cells showing level three and four intensity. The pilot reported being in solid rain and noted significant activity to the south. The pilot then contacted approach control for VFR flight following and was briefed on thunderstorm cells in the area. The pilot reported activity on the cockpit stormscope and requested and received a deviation to the south. ## Wreckage Recovery and Examination Portions of the wreckage were found over the next few weeks scattered over several miles. Continuity was established to all flight controls. Examination of the one recovered engine did not reveal any anomalies that would have contributed to the accident.