NTSB Factual Report

On June 18, 2009, about 1800 Pacific daylight time, an experimental Simmons Vans RV-8A, veered off the runway after landing on runway 13 at Cameron Airpark (O61), Cameron Park, California. The owner/pilot operated the airplane under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a local area flight. The airplane was structurally damaged, and the pilot and passenger were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local area flight, and no flight plan had been filed.

In a written statement, the pilot conveyed that while doing pattern work, he noted the winds were variable and gusty. After touching down on the main landing gear, and completing the rollout, the airplane encountered a "very" strong downward side gust coming from the midfield on the canyon-side of the airport. The gust of wind pushed the airplane off the paved portion of the runway edge and the nose wheel sank in the dirt. The propeller struck the ground, and the airplane nosed over. The pilot reported no mechanical problems with the airplane.

The closest weather reporting station was located about 16 nautical miles west of the accident airport. Recorded weather indicated 10 miles visibility; a scattered cloud layer at 15,000 feet above ground level (agl); winds from 230 degrees at 12 knots gusting to 15 knots; temperature 28 degrees Celsius, dew point 9 degrees Celsius; and altimeter setting of 29.83 inches of Mercury.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane while landing with gusting winds.