Incident Overview
According to the pilot, the airplane began hydroplaning upon landing in heavy rain. The airplane departed the left side of the runway and struck trees, resulting in damage to both wings and collapse of the landing gear. A witness reported that the airplane touched down in moderate rain.
Sequence of Events
The pilot reported that during landing in heavy rain, the airplane experienced hydroplaning, leading to a loss of directional control. The airplane exited the left side of the runway and impacted trees. The impact damaged both wings and caused the landing gear to collapse. A witness observed the touchdown occurring in moderate rain conditions.
Probable Cause
The probable cause was determined to be a loss of control on the ground due to hydroplaning and a collision with trees. A contributing factor was the rain.