Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s loss of control after failing to determine wind direction during landing in variable, gusting wind conditions.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
Pilot reported that, after touching down on a dry lakebed, he encountered a wind gust that lifted the tail of the airplane, resulting in a nose over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the front wing struts, vertical stabilizer, and rudder. The pilot reported that there were no pre-accident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.