What happened
A private flight departing from Natchitoches Regional Airport (IER) in Louisiana ended in an accident at Gladewater Municipal Airport (07F) in Texas. During the approach to runway 14, the pilot was monitoring weather updates via radio and onboard NEXRAD, noting winds from 170 degrees at approximately 20 to 25 knots. While flying the left downwind leg of the traffic pattern, the pilot began reducing airspeed.
As the aircraft reached the short final stage of the approach at roughly 120 knots, a sudden gust of crosswind pushed the twin-engine aircraft 30 feet to the right of the runway centerline and caused a rapid loss of altitude. In response, the pilot initiated a go-around by applying full engine power. However, the application of power caused the aircraft to roll to the right. The pilot subsequently chose to reduce power and continue the landing. The aircraft struck the ground and exited the runway, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage, wings, empennage, and landing gear. The incident resulted in one serious injury and three minor injuries among the pilot and passengers.
Findings
Post-accident inspections conducted by the NTSB, FAA, and manufacturers found no evidence of mechanical failure or malfunctions that would have prevented the aircraft from operating normally. The investigation noted that strong gusting crosswinds were present during the landing sequence.