What happened
During a Title 14, CFR Part 135 cargo flight, an airline transport certificated pilot was performing a landing on runway 23. The pilot reported that the wind at the airport was from 180 degrees with a strength of 10 knots or greater. This wind condition was evidenced by white foam streaks on nearby lakes appearing perpendicular to the runway.
During the landing roll, the wheel-equipped airplane suddenly veered to the left. In an attempt to maintain the centerline, the pilot applied right rudder and right brake; however, the aircraft departed the left side of the runway. The aircraft subsequently rolled down an embankment and collided with a ditch. The impact resulted in structural damage to the fuselage, the left aileron, and the left main landing gear assembly. No injuries were reported.
Safety message
- The pilot indicated that the accident could have been prevented by not attempting to land with the existing crosswind.