Flight Path
The pilot entered the traffic pattern for Runway 35. While on the base leg, he selected two notches of flaps and trimmed the airplane to maintain an airspeed of 85 knots.
Encounter and Impact
During the final approach to the runway, the airplane encountered a gust of wind characterized as a downdraft. The pilot responded by applying power, but the airplane impacted the rising terrain prior to the approach end of the runway. After impact, the airplane slid approximately 200 feet before coming to rest.
Weather Conditions
At an airport located 31 miles to the southeast, the reported winds were from 260 degrees at 8 knots. No other weather observations are available from the accident site.