Accident Sequence
A solo commercial pilot operating a cargo flight under 14 CFR Part 135 attempted to land on a 1,850-foot-long by 50-foot-wide gravel-covered airstrip. Witnesses reported gusty east-southeast winds between 25 and 40 knots blowing directly across the runway. During the final approach to runway 19, the pilot corrected for a left crosswind. After passing the runway threshold, the airplane "floated down the runway" and touched down about mid-field. Upon touchdown, the airplane bounced twice, immediately followed by the sound of full engine power.
As the airplane began to climb, it made a sharp right turn to the west to avoid terrain at the end of the runway. Continuing the westerly turn, it climbed to about 150 feet over the ocean waters south of the airport. Witnesses then observed the nose pitch up and the left wing suddenly drop. The airplane subsequently descended, struck the ocean surface, and sank in 30 feet of water about 200 yards from shore.
Examination and Pilot Reports
Examination of the airplane revealed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical anomalies. Pilots who regularly use the accident airport stated that they routinely encounter substantial downdrafts on final approach to runway 19 when the prevailing strong east-southeast winds are present. They added that the approach requires a significant correction for a left crosswind under those conditions.
Pilot Communication
A pilot who had recently departed from the accident airport spoke with the accident pilot via radio about 45 minutes before the accident. That pilot warned: "Be careful. You've got the typical strong southeast winds blowing right across the runway."