Incident Overview
A pilot reported that during the approach to a desert airport, the wind increased to about 15 knots with gusting conditions. On landing, the aircraft encountered a sudden change in wind direction.
Landing Sequence
The pilot stated that "a gust of wind hit me from the opposite direction of flight causing a stall." The airplane stalled approximately 8 feet above Runway 18 and subsequently landed hard. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the engine mounts.
Meteorological Conditions
According to the METAR from the nearest airport, around the time of the incident the wind was from 210° at 4 knots, with a temperature of 95°F. The field elevation was 725 feet, and the density altitude was calculated at 3,315 feet.
Mechanical Status
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.