Incident Details
The pilot of the airplane reported that prior to arrival at the airport, he checked the weather, which indicated the wind was variable at 7 knots. During the final approach, while over the numbers, the pilot noted that the airplane was not descending as it should and seemed fast.
Pilot Report
Observing the windsock straight out, the pilot realized he was landing with a tailwind. As he considered whether to go around, the landing gear touched down, and he decided to make a full stop. The airplane subsequently continued off the end of the runway and over a cliff, coming to rest upright about 120 feet from the runway in an open dirt area.
Aircraft Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the engine firewall and undercarriage. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.