NTSB Factual Report

The airplane was substantially damaged when it impacted terrain adjacent to runway 18 (4,000 feet by 75 feet, asphalt) during an attempted go-around at the Bolivar Municipal Airport (M17), Bolivar, Missouri. The pilot and passenger were not injured. The pilot reported that he entered the traffic pattern for runway 18. He noted that the windsock indicated winds were "directly from the west."

The pilot stated: "The air was relatively smooth until turning to final at which point it became increasingly turbulent as I descended. On final approach I was applying right aileron and full left rudder to maintain alignment with the runway centerline. On initial touchdown the plane 'skipped' slightly and at that moment I believe a strong gust of wind from the west/northwest lifted the right wing. Uncomfortable with the plane's attitude I initiated a 'go-around', applying full power and leveling the wings. I was unable to gain altitude quickly and transitioned into a grassy area on the east side of the runway."

The pilot noted that when observing the windsock after the accident, the wind direction would vary plus or minus approximately 30 degrees from west "with strong gusts." The pilot estimated winds at the accident airport as from 270 degrees variable, at 20 knots, gusting to 30 knots.

Weather reporting was not available at the airport. Wind conditions recorded at the Springfield-Branson Airport (SGF), located about 21 miles south of M17, at 0952, were from 270 degrees at 12 knots. At 1052, recorded winds were from 270 degrees at 16 knots, gusting to 22 knots.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind condition and his failure to maintain directional control during the go-around attempt. Contributing factors were the crosswind and the gusts.