Incident Overview
On final approach to runway 35, a pilot reported encountering 'extreme windshift' that caused the aircraft to drift approximately 550 feet right of course. The airspeed dropped from 130 to 100 knots, and the aircraft lost about 300 feet of altitude before being pushed back on course with further altitude loss. The aircraft then touched down hard on the approach end of the runway.
Damage and Injuries
During the hard touchdown, the right main tire blew out. The right propeller struck the runway nine times, and the right wing sustained damage. All four occupants escaped without injury.
Weather Conditions
The reported surface wind was from 240 degrees at 10 knots with no gusts. The official findings identified weather conditions including crosswind, tailwind, windshear, and unfavorable wind as contributing factors.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that the aircraft encountered a significant windshift on final approach, resulting in a substantial deviation from the intended flight path. Despite corrective actions, the aircraft experienced a hard landing with consequent damage.
Official Findings
The probable cause was determined to be a hard landing during the flare/touchdown phase. Findings included weather conditions (crosswind, tailwind, windshear, unfavorable wind), the pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions, and failure to attain a proper flare.