Accident Description
The solo airline transport pilot reported he was landing a twin-engine airplane on a gravel-covered airstrip at the conclusion of a Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 positioning flight. The airplane touched down hard on the right side of the runway, at which point the landing gear collapsed. The aircraft continued to slide for approximately 150 yards, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage.
Pilot Report
According to the pilot, while on final approach, the airplane "encountered a sinker" and began to descend below his anticipated approach path. He added full engine power to stop the descent, but the airplane continued to descend and subsequently landed hard. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane.
Weather Information
A weather reporting station located 14 miles south of the accident site reported wind from 110 degrees at 24 knots, gusting to 35 knots, 12 minutes before the accident.