Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate compensation for crosswind conditions during landing, resulting in a runway excursion and collision with a hangar.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
According to the pilot, he was landing the experimental tailwheel airplane after flying around the traffic pattern. He stated that he applied rudder to compensate for crosswind gusts on final approach, about 15 feet above the runway. As the airplane touched down, it started to drift toward the right side of the runway. The pilot attempted to correct with left rudder then decided to abort the landing; however, the airplane continued through a grassy area and impacted the side of a hangar causing substantial damage to both wings. Examination of the airplane did not reveal evidence of pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures.
Source record
Factual narrative
According to the pilot, he was landing the experimental tailwheel airplane after flying around the traffic pattern. He stated that he applied rudder to compensate for crosswind wind gusts on final about 15 feet above the runway. As the airplane touched down, it started to drift toward the right side of the runway. The pilot attempted to correct with left rudder then decided to abort the landing; however, the airplane continued through a grassy area and impacted the side of a hangar causing substantial damage to both wings. Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector did not show evidence of pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures. The nearest weather reporting station about 30 miles southwest of the accident airport, reported wind from 290 degrees gusting to 17 knots at the time of the accident.