NTSB Factual Report

The pilot reported that he flew a traffic pattern for landing on runway 16, a 5,000-foot-long, 75-foot-wide, asphalt runway. As the airplane was about to touch down, a gust of wind pushed it toward the right side of the runway. The pilot added power and attempted to correct; however, the airplane drifted off the right side of the runway and impacted a tree. Two witnesses observed the airplane in a nose-high attitude over the runway as it drifted right into trees. One of the witnesses estimated the wind from 110 degrees at 9 knots and increasing. The recorded wind at the airport, about 30 minutes after the accident, was from 140 degrees at 14 knots, gusting to 24 knots. Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector did not reveal any preimpact mechanical malfunctions and substantial damaged was observed on the right wing.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while landing in gusting wind conditions.