Incident Overview
During the landing approach to runway 20, the pilot maneuvered from the left to compensate for a crosswind. At the moment of touchdown, a strong gust from the west impacted the aircraft. The pilot could not maintain directional control due to insufficient rudder authority, causing the aircraft to veer off the right side of the runway and execute a ground loop. The ground loop resulted in substantial damage to the left main landing gear and left wing.
Weather Conditions
The automated weather observation at Laconia Airport, Laconia, New Hampshire, at 1235 reported winds from 230 degrees at 14 knots, gusting to 19 knots.
Pilot Experience
The pilot reported a total flight experience of 1,845 hours, with 113 hours in the specific make and model of the aircraft involved. The pilot also stated that there were no mechanical deficiencies with the aircraft prior to the incident.