AO-1991-005

The pilot made two approaches to the 430m two-way airstrip, oriented 330/150, to assess the surface wind and decide the most appropriate direction in which to land. Both his approaches were toward the northwest and involved a go-around from 200 feet and 100 feet respectively. On the third approach at about 20 or 30 feet agl the pilot noted the groundspeed of the aircraft was too high and not reducing normally. He considered a go-around was not practicable so persevered with the attempt to land but despite maximum braking the aircraft slowed 90 to the left causing substantial damage to the wing, fuselage, and undercarriage. Eyewitness evidence indicated that the pilot had misjudged the strength of the tailwind which was close to 10 knots.