Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain a proper approach path in gusting crosswind wind conditions, which resulted in landing short of the runway and impact with a ditch and runway light.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during approach, he encountered a downdraft and the tailwheel landed short of the runway threshold, struck a ditch, and impacted a runway light.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

The pilot reported that the wind was a "22+ knot front left quartering crosswind and gusting."

Contributing factors

cause Descent/approach/glide path — Not attained/maintained
cause Pilot
cause Effect on operation
cause Effect on operation
cause Effect on operation
cause Effect on operation

Conditions

Weather: VMC, wind 220/16kt, vis 10sm

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1 Aug 2019: Douglas DC3C A — Bush Air Fuel