Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's loss of directional control while landing, which resulted in a runway excursion.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was landing the tailwheel-equipped airplane in light crosswind conditions. He reported that just before touchdown the airplane began to settle. He added power and after a hard three-point landing the airplane veered left. He corrected back to centerline; however, the airplane went right and then left again and exited the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the empennage and right horizontal stabilizer. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures of the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.