Accident Description
A pilot was conducting an approach to a tree-lined runway when the aircraft encountered significant low-level wind shear and sink approximately 800 feet prior to the runway threshold, as reported by the pilot. The pilot initiated a go-around, but the aircraft impacted the ground 150 feet short of the runway.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to both engine mounts and the right-wing spar.
Environmental Conditions
The Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS) at the airport reported wind from 250 degrees at 13 knots, gusting to 22 knots, around the time of the accident. Density altitude was reported as 4,000 feet. The pilot was landing on Runway 20, which is 3,560 feet long.
Airport Information
The Airport Facility Directory notes that Runway 20 has a non-standard entry due to rising terrain at the approach end, with 81-foot tall trees located 560 feet from the approach end of the runway.
Pilot Recommendation
In the National Transportation Safety Board Pilot Aircraft Accident Report, the pilot stated in the Recommendation section that the accident could have been prevented by avoiding non-standard or steep approaches to Runway 20 in gusting wind conditions.
The pilot also reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.