Incident Overview
According to the pilot's account, he was aware of crosswind conditions at the destination airport. While entering the traffic pattern, he observed "light to moderate" turbulence below 1,000 feet. On final approach, the turbulence became "significant," prompting him to maintain flaps at 20 degrees and an airspeed of "75-80" knots, with a "marginal" crab angle to counter the crosswind.
Landing Attempt
After crossing the threshold of runway 2, the airplane encountered a "large gust of wind" that lifted it significantly above the runway. The pilot applied full power and attempted a go-around. However, he reported that the airplane "almost felt like it was being pushed back down on the runway." He felt he had "no choice" but to attempt a landing.
Landing and Runway Excursion
The airplane touched down "with force" approximately halfway down the runway. The pilot applied "heavy" brakes, which locked, causing the airplane to depart the runway onto soft sand. The aircraft continued moving until it struck mounds of sand and came to a "sudden stop" upon hitting a ditch.
Weather Conditions
The reported winds at Manteo, North Carolina, located about 6 miles southeast of the accident site, were from 090 degrees at 12 knots, gusting to 14 knots.