Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot’s decision to land with a crosswind that exceeded the airplane’s demonstrated capability, which resulted in the airplane banking left and the wing striking the ground.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Current)
Analysis
The pilot reported that during the landing flare in gusty crosswind conditions, as the tires touched down a wind gust lifted the airplane back into the air. The airplane drifted to the left off the runway centerline and he added full power initiating a go-around. The airplane suddenly banked "uncontrollably" to the left, the left wing struck the ground, which resulted in the airplane coming to rest on its belly. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and empennage.
The pilot reported that there were no pre-accident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
A review of local weather from an automated weather observation station located on the airport, showed that about the time of the accident the wind was 270° at 39 knots, gusts to 51 knots. The pilot landed on runway 21.
Cirrus Pilot Operating Handbook reports for crosswind landing:
Normal crosswind landings are made with full flaps. Avoid prolonged slips. After touchdown, hold a straight course with rudder and brakes as required. The maximum allowable crosswind velocity is dependent upon pilot capability as well as aircraft limitations. Operation in direct crosswinds of 21 knots has been demonstrated.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA17CA192