Accident Overview
During an unplanned en route stop at Trego Wakeeney Airport, the pilot set up an approach to Runway 35. No airport advisories were received, and the pilot used the winds aloft to configure the approach. The pilot did not see the wind sock until turning to base leg, at which point it indicated a wind direction opposite to that used for the approach. Despite this discrepancy, the pilot continued the approach for landing.
Eyewitness Observations
An eyewitness noted that the airplane was in a 40-degree angle of bank while turning to final. The eyewitness also stated that the pilot did not overfly the airport to verify runway and wind conditions. The wind conditions at the time were reported from 150 degrees at 15 knots with gusts of 20 knots.
Pilot's Account
According to the pilot, a noticeable change in airspeed and lift occurred while turning final for Runway 35. The pilot applied full power but could not control the rate of descent. The airplane subsequently contacted the ground in an open field about 500 feet short of the runway.
Aftermath
After touchdown, the airplane continued about 300 feet, crossed a road, and struck a three-foot-high dirt embankment.