Incident Details
During the landing flare in gusty crosswind conditions, the pilot reported that as the tires touched down, a wind gust lifted the airplane back into the air. The airplane then drifted to the left off the runway centerline. In response, the pilot added full power to initiate a go-around. The airplane suddenly banked "uncontrollably" to the left, causing the left wing to strike the ground. The airplane subsequently came to rest on its belly. The accident resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage and empennage.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there were no pre-accident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot did not identify any contributing factors beyond the wind conditions.
Weather Conditions
A review of local weather data from an automated observation station located on the airport revealed that around the time of the accident, the wind was from 270° at 39 knots, with gusts to 51 knots. The pilot had been conducting the landing on runway 21.
Aircraft Specifications
The accident report references the Cirrus Pilot Operating Handbook, which provides guidance for crosswind landings. According to the handbook, normal crosswind landings are made with full flaps, and prolonged slips should be avoided. After touchdown, pilots should hold a straight course using rudder and brakes as required. The handbook also notes that the maximum allowable crosswind velocity depends on both pilot capability and aircraft limitations, and that operation in direct crosswinds of 21 knots has been demonstrated.