N18413

On May 7, 1995, at 1200 central daylight time, a Beech F33A, N18413, was substantially damaged following a loss of control while landing near Houston, Texas. The private pilot and his three passengers were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the personal cross country flight from Batesville, Texas.

The pilot reported that, while he was flaring the airplane for landing on runway 09 at Houston Southwest Airport (AXH), he noticed he was drifting toward the left side of the runway. He further stated that full power was applied in an attempt to go around; however, the left wing tip contacted the ground. The airplane impacted at a 90 degree angle to the runway and slid through a grassy area and across a taxiway before coming to rest.

Damage included separation of the nose landing gear and deformation of the engine support beam and firewall.

At 1150 central daylight time, William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) located 15 miles to the northeast was reporting wind from 170 degrees varying in speed from 13 to 20 knots. Pilot reported wind was from 160 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 20. According to the manufacturer, the maximum demonstrated crosswind component for a Beech F33A is 17 knots.