Low-Wing Airplane Cartwheels During Go-Around in Gusty Crosswind

Accident Sequence

The pilot of the low-wing airplane reported that during the approach in variable crosswind conditions, the airplane encountered a gust of wind from the right. The pilot corrected and continued the approach. Approximately 10 feet above the runway, the airplane encountered another stronger gust of wind from the right, prompting the pilot to decide to go around. During the go-around, the airplane encountered yet another gust of wind from the right. The right wing rose and the left wing dropped and contacted the ground. Subsequently, the airplane cartwheeled and came to rest on the left side of the runway.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that there were no pre-accident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Weather Conditions

A review of local weather at approximately the time of the accident reported wind direction 060 degrees true at 6 knots. The pilot was landing on runway 32.