Pilot Lands Downwind, Strikes Runway Light (N4385N)

Incident Overview

While approaching the airport to land, the pilot attempted to obtain advisories but was unsuccessful after two attempts. He flew over a flag on the downwind leg for runway 06. The pilot reported that the winds were 'out of the East (from) 270 at approximately 10 mph.' After landing, he experienced a wind shift that caused the airplane's left main wheel to drop off the edge of the runway, and it struck a runway light.

Initial Observations

The initial police officer on the scene told the Safety Board that it appeared the airplane landed with the wind instead of into the wind. The FAA Inspector who arrived at the scene stated that the pilot landed downwind and noted residual tire marks from the left main tire as it skidded on the runway.

Weather Analysis

A review of all available weather data from several airports in the local area revealed that the winds at the time of the accident were predominately from the west.