Overview
A pilot reported that during landing, at approximately five feet above the ground, a strong crosswind gust was encountered. The pilot noted that after the gust, he should have applied full power and initiated a go-around. The airplane departed the right side of the runway and impacted a ditch.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that after encountering the gust of wind, he recognized that he should have executed a go-around maneuver. Instead, the airplane continued and departed the runway surface, subsequently striking a ditch.
Witness Statement
A witness to the accident reported that the accident airplane was unstable during the landing approach. According to the witness, after touchdown, the airplane began to bounce. The witness reported that after the third bounce, the pilot lost control of the airplane, causing it to depart the prepared runway surface and impact the ditch.
Weather Information
The witness indicated that the wind velocity at the time of the accident was approximately 7 to 8 knots, with gusts in between. Additionally, at 1553, a weather observation station located 15 nautical miles to the southwest reported wind direction and speed as 350 degrees magnetic at 8 knots.