NTSB Factual Report

The pilot reported that as he neared for touchdown on runway 32, the airplane encountered a strong gust of wind that pushed him “off the runway”. He stated that he added power, but the engine did not respond. The airplane then landed hard; tearing the right main landing gear off, followed by the nose-wheel landing gear. An examination of the airplane following the accident revealed that the airplane’s fuselage was buckled aft of the main landing gear attachment points and the both tips of the two-bladed propeller were curled aft in a manner consistent with engine power at the time of impact. An individual, who was opening up his hangar, reported that he heard “the sound of metal contacting the ground”; turned and saw the accident airplane dragging its wing. The witness also saw the main landing gear separate from the airplane, and the baggage door, “pop” open. He also added that he did not hear the engine increase power, for a “go-around.” The automated weather reporting station, located about 21 miles southeast of the accident site, reported at 1051 winds at 220 degrees at 8 knots.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind and inadequate flare, which resulted in a hard landing.