Incident Overview
A pilot returning home from Hastings, Michigan, reported an accident during landing at his farm runway. According to the pilot, he checked the wind sock before landing and observed a direct crosswind. He noted that he typically lands on a heading of approximately 350 degrees under direct crosswind conditions.
Landing Sequence
The pilot stated that he touched down in the middle of the field. He described the field as having a slight rise at each end, requiring him to add a little power to clear the far side of the rise. After reducing power, extending full flaps, flaring, and landing, the pilot reported that everything seemed normal initially.
Unexpected Tailwind
The pilot recounted that approximately 100 feet or more into the landing roll, he felt he encountered a slight tailwind. In response, he locked the brakes and turned off the magnetos. Despite these actions, the aircraft continued and ended up with the nose down in the bottom of an 8-foot drainage ditch.
Aircraft Examination
An examination of the airplane following the accident revealed no anomalies.
Weather Conditions
Weather reports from Battle Creek, Michigan, located 19 miles south-southwest of the accident site, indicated winds from 260 degrees at 10 knots just before the accident.