What happened
The pilot was operating an aircraft while entering the traffic pattern for runway 35. During the base leg, the pilot deployed two notches of flaps and adjusted the trim to maintain an airspeed of 85 knots. As the airplane proceeded on final approach toward the runway, it encountered a gust of wind characterized as a downdraft. In response, the pilot applied additional power; however, the aircraft was unable to clear the rising terrain before reaching the approach end of the runway. The airplane impacted the ground and slid approximately 200 feet before coming to rest.
Findings
The investigation noted that winds reported at an airport located 31 miles to the southeast were from 260 degrees at 8 knots. This meteorological data provided context for the localized wind conditions experienced during the approach.