Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during taxi in gusting wind conditions.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, while maneuvering during back-taxi after landing on a backcountry airstrip, a gust of wind caught the airplane’s tail. The airplane nosed over which resulted in substantial damage to the rudder and left wing lift struts. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.