NTSB Factual Report

The pilot reported that he and his passenger were cleared by tower for the approach to runway 17 Right (R). During landing, "a violent wind gust without warning hit the airplane." The pilot attempted to recover, "when a second violent wind gust hit the airplane causing a wing to hit the ground." The airplane's initial impact point was the left wing that impacted the safety area between runway 17 R and 17 Left (L), and just beyond taxiway Foxtrot. The airplane came to rest in the same safety area about 45° left of the initial impact point, and about 10 feet from runway 17 L. The airplane sustained substantial damage to runway left wing, the fuselage and the rudder.

The meteorological aerodrome report identified that the wind was out of 220° at the velocity of 31 kts. gusting to 38 kts. about the time of the accident.

According to the manufacturer's pilot operating handbook, the maximum demonstrated crosswind component is 23 kts.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot’s improper decision to land the airplane with a gusting crosswind, which resulted in a loss of airplane control.