Event Details
According to a statement from the pilot, the airplane was aligned with the runway during landing when an unexpected wind gust caused it to drift to the right side of the runway. The pilot then initiated a go-around. During the go-around maneuver, the right main landing gear door struck an airfield sign. Following the impact, the pilot reduced the throttle to idle and made the decision to stop the airplane. The aircraft continued forward, moving off the runway and traversing uneven terrain before coming to rest in an upright position.
Damage Assessment
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage, empennage, vertical stabilizer, and elevators. The right landing gear door was also likely damaged due to contact with the sign.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions with the airplane. The crosswind at the time of the accident was calculated to be between 17 and 20 knots.