Incident Overview
The pilot reported flying a traffic pattern for landing on runway 16, which is a 5,000-foot-long, 75-foot-wide asphalt runway. During the final approach, as the airplane was about to touch down, a gust of wind pushed it toward the right side of the runway. In response, the pilot added power and attempted to correct the aircraft's heading. Despite these efforts, the airplane drifted off the right side of the runway and impacted a tree.
Witness Observations
Two witnesses observed the airplane in a nose-high attitude over the runway as it drifted to the right and entered trees. One of the witnesses estimated the wind to be from 110 degrees at 9 knots, with increasing strength. The recorded wind at the airport approximately 30 minutes after the accident was from 140 degrees at 14 knots, gusting to 24 knots.
Aircraft Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector conducted an examination of the airplane. The inspection did not reveal any preimpact mechanical malfunctions. Substantial damage was observed specifically on the right wing.