Incident Overview
During taxi, the control tower reported wind velocity of 24 knots with gusts to 27 knots. The pilot noted that while taxiing, he could not maintain the aircraft on the taxiway centerline due to strong winds and decided to return to the ramp. As the aircraft passed 90 degrees of the turnaround, it tipped over onto its left wing and nose.
Investigation Findings
Investigation revealed that the wind gauge in the tower had malfunctioned. At the time of the incident, the gauge was indicating 20 knots less wind than actually existed. The actual wind speed was therefore higher than the reported 24 knots gusting to 27 knots.
Sequence of Events
The sequence began when the pilot received the wind report from the tower. While taxiing, the pilot experienced difficulty maintaining directional control and opted to abort the taxi and return to the ramp. During the turnaround maneuver, the aircraft's left wing and nose contacted the ground.