Incident Overview
During a landing in gusty crosswind conditions, both wing tips of an airplane contacted the ground, resulting in structural damage to both wings. The flight instructor, who was at the controls, reported that as they approached the airport, they attempted to contact the airstrip on the Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) to obtain wind and airport advisories but were unable to raise anyone.
Pre-Landing Assessment
After the unsuccessful radio attempt, the instructor overflew the airport to look for wind indicators but did not find any. To assess the wind conditions, the instructor used a nearby lake as a reference and decided to land on runway 36. On final approach, the instructor applied wind correction and successfully touched down on the center of the runway.
Loss of Control
Shortly after touchdown, a sudden and very strong wind gust turned the airplane to the right. The instructor attempted to counteract the turn with left rudder but was unable to maintain control. As a result, both wing tips contacted the ground, causing structural damage to both wings.
Mechanical Condition
The instructor stated that there were no pre-accident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane.
Weather Information
An aviation weather reporting station located 9 nautical miles west of the airport reported winds from the west at 15 knots with gusts to 25 knots at the time of the incident.