Accident Sequence
The pilot reported that while landing, the airplane encountered a crosswind gust and drifted left. At touchdown, a second gust lifted the right wing, causing the airplane to drift off the runway centerline. The left wing impacted the grass. The pilot added power, but the left wing continued to drag in the grass, the airplane exited the runway, and the landing gear collapsed.
Damage Information
Examination of the wings revealed substantial damage due to delamination of both wing spars.
Pilot's Report
The pilot stated there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Weather Information
The airport's automated weather observation station reported that around the time of the accident, the wind was from 260° at 20 knots with gusts to 28 knots. The pilot was landing on runway 19, resulting in a crosswind component of 19 knots gusting to 26 knots. The manufacturer's pilot's operating handbook stated, "The maximum allowable crosswind velocity is dependent upon pilot capability as well as aircraft limitations. Operation in direct crosswinds of 20 knots has been demonstrated."