Incident Overview
A pilot reported that during an approach to land on runway 9R, a strong crosswind caused the aircraft to be slightly higher and faster, prompting a go-around. The pilot stated that the go-around was executed without issue. The tower controller then cleared the pilot to enter a downwind for the same runway but did not provide wind information.
Second Approach and Landing
On the second approach, the pilot encountered a "tremendous" crosswind that suddenly stopped, causing the aircraft to drift south of the runway. The pilot chose to land rather than correct the drift due to low airspeed. The aircraft touched down further along a taxiway than intended, and the pilot realized there was insufficient remaining taxiway to stop. To avoid obstructions ahead, the pilot veered left. During the ground roll, the aircraft encountered a 5-foot drop-off, which caused the nose gear to collapse and the propeller to contact the ground. The aircraft slid approximately 10 to 15 feet before coming to rest upright.
Air Traffic Control Communication
Review of a voice tape from the Palm Beach International Airport air traffic control tower revealed that during the first approach, the pilot was given wind information (160 degrees at 10 knots) when cleared to land. Before the second approach, the controller advised the pilot that the wind was from 170 degrees at 11 knots.
Site Examination
According to an FAA inspector who examined the accident site, the aircraft landed on a closed taxiway on the centerline, then traveled off the taxiway onto grass, across another taxiway, and down a small depression where the nose landing gear dug in, causing it to collapse.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that there was no mechanical malfunction or failure.