Accident Overview
A pilot conducting a landing approach experienced a sudden wind shift as the aircraft entered the flare, leading to a go-around attempt that resulted in a stall and ground impact. The aircraft sustained damage to the wingtip, aileron, and secondary spar. The pilot reported no mechanical problems before the event.
Sequence of Events
The pilot initially overflew the airport to observe the windsock, which indicated winds aligned with the runway. While initiating the landing flare, the windsock showed a shift of about 90 degrees from the left, relative to the aircraft's heading. The pilot initiated a go-around, during which the airplane turned left into the wind and began to stall. The aircraft impacted the ground and bounced. While still in a stalled configuration, the airplane veered left off the runway. The pilot held the nose down while accelerating in ground effect, then initiated a climb. He decided to return to the departure airport instead of attempting another landing.
Post-Accident Findings
After landing at the departure airport, the pilot noted damage to the wingtip, aileron, and secondary spar. He stated there were no mechanical issues with the airplane prior to the accident. Recorded weather data from the airport observation facility indicated winds from 350 degrees at 12 knots, gusting to 18 knots, at the time of the event. The pilot had obtained a DUATS weather briefing earlier that day.