Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in the airplane exiting the runway and striking a ditch.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that after landing the tailwheel equipped airplane, he applied brake during the landing roll and the airplane started to turn. He applied rudder to correct but overcorrected and the airplane oscillated and then went off the left side of the runway. The airplane subsequently struck a ditch next to the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right lower wing and the right horizontal tail and elevator. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.