NTSB Factual Report

The pilot of the Beech 23 stated that as the airplane crossed over the approach end of the 1,800-foot long by 130-foot wide turf runway, it was struck by a "powerful gust" that banked the airplane steeply left. The pilot leveled the wings, and the airplane touched down angled about 10 degrees left of the runway heading. After rolling about 50 feet, the left wing tip contacted a bush, pivoting the airplane further left. The airplane then struck other brush, partially separating the left wing from the fuselage. The pilot estimated that the winds during the landing approach were a 45- to 50-degree crosswind, at 13 knots, with gusts between 15 and 20 knots.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the landing. Contributing was the gusting wind conditions.