What happened
The accident sequence began as the aircraft approached the threshold of runway 16 for landing. During the final phase of the approach, the sink rate increased dramatically just before touchdown. This rapid descent resulted in the right wing dropping and striking the runway surface upon impact.
Following the initial contact with the main landing gear, the aircraft continued its momentum along the pavement. It subsequently exited the runway on the right side. Upon leaving the paved surface, the nose gear collapsed under the stress of the excursion.
The investigation
Investigators reviewed meteorological data recorded shortly after the event. Five minutes after the accident occurred, wind measurements taken 22 miles from the site indicated winds from 180 degrees at 22 knots with gusts reaching 26 knots. These conditions suggest significant crosswind or gusting elements may have been present during the landing attempt.
Findings
The primary factors contributing to the accident included the excessive sink rate during the final approach and the subsequent impact of the right wing with the runway. The collapse of the nose gear was a direct result of the aircraft exiting the runway pavement at speed.