Accident Overview
During a landing to the southeast, a single-engine airplane experienced a gust of wind that contacted its tail from the left side, causing the airplane to veer left. The airplane then departed the runway, crossed a taxiway, and impacted a ditch.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane.
Wreckage Examination
An examination of the wreckage by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that the nose gear had collapsed and the propeller was bent aft. Additionally, the engine firewall was wrinkled below the left engine mount.
Weather Conditions
Recorded weather at the airport around the time of the accident included wind from 080° at 10 knots.