Event Description
A pilot departed from an origin airport located 21 nautical miles from the destination, with a reported wind of 6 knots at departure. The flight proceeded west, and the pilot encountered turbulence after clearing the Washington D.C. Special Flight Rules Area. Twenty-five minutes into the flight, the pilot discovered that the destination airport, several miles away, was not reporting wind. Expecting wind conditions similar to those at the origin, the pilot continued to the destination and entered the traffic pattern on the downwind leg. To maintain course, the pilot established a crab angle. Turning to base leg and then final approach, the pilot observed a windsock indicating wind of about 12 knots. The pilot maneuvered the airplane into a left wing low attitude with full right rudder to align with the centerline of runway 35. Upon reaching the runway, the pilot flared the airplane nose; however, a strong wind gust pushed the aircraft to the right. The pilot applied full power to initiate a go-around, but the wind continued to carry the airplane rightward. The left main landing gear touched down in "soggy" grass terrain, and the nose landing gear subsequently impacted the ground. The airplane then nosed over and came to rest inverted.
Postaccident Findings
Postaccident examination of the wreckage revealed substantial damage to the engine firewall, fuselage, and left wing. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Wind Conditions
At the time of the accident, the wind at Washington-Dulles International Airport was reported from 300 degrees at 19 knots, gusting to 32 knots.