Primary finding
Probable cause
the pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions and failure to maintain directional control, which resulted in a ground swerve, encounter with soft/sandy terrain, and a subsequent noseover. Factors relating to the accident were: the pilot's selection of the wrong runway, and the resultant tailwind.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot landed on runway 18 with a tailwind from 340 degrees at 6 gusting 11 knots. He reported that the airplane veered to the right and existed the runway. The pilot tried to correct the airplane, but was not successful. The airplane then encountered a soft sandy shoulder and nosed over.
Source record
Factual narrative
On July 30, 1996, at 1945 central daylight time (cdt), a Rockwell S-2D, N1768S, registered to Farmer's Flying Service, Inc., of Bancroft, Wisconsin, was substantially damaged following a loss of control and nose over during the landing roll on a private airstrip in Bancroft, Wisconsin. The commercial pilot reported minor injuries. The personal 14 CFR Part 91 flight was operating in visual meteorological conditions. No flight plan was on file. The flight departed Bancroft, Wisconsin, exact time unknown. According to the pilot's written statement, while landing on runway 18, with a tailwind, the pilot could not keep the tail wheel down on the ground as the airplane veered to the right side of the runway. The pilot said he tried to turn left but the airplane exited the right side of the runway about mid-field and encountered a soft sandy shoulder. The airplane then nosed over. At fifty five minutes before the accident, Central Wisconsin Airport reported winds from 340 degrees at 6 knots with gusts to 11 knots. -