Accident Details
A solo student pilot was operating a high-performance airplane when, during approach, the airplane descended through turbulence. The automated weather observation system reported wind "variable between 110 and 160" and the pilot was landing on runway 8, prompting him to "crabbed to the right."
During the landing flare, the pilot aligned the airplane with the runway centerline and "was quickly pushed left." He added full power to go around. At an altitude of about 30 to 50 feet above the ground, "a gust of wind caused [him] to bank/turn left" and the airplane impacted the ground.
Aircraft Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and right wing.
Pilot and Mechanical Factors
The student pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. A Federal Aviation Administration inspector reported that the student pilot did not possess a high-performance endorsement.
Weather Conditions
A review of recorded data from the automated weather observation station located on the airport indicated that, about 5 minutes before the accident, the wind was from 140° at 8 knots, variable from 110° to 170°. The airplane landed on runway 8.