Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s improper landing flare and his subsequent failure to maintain directional control during the landing in tailwind conditions.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during the landing, he flared high and bounced. The airplane touched down again, and a "gust of wind blew [him] off the runway." He attempted to recover by adding full power to go around; however, the airplane exited the runway to the left and came to rest inverted. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the empennage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. A review of current weather conditions at the accident airport revealed that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 150° at 9 knots. The airplane landed on runway 31.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during the landing he flared high and bounced. The airplane touched down again and a "gust of wind blew [him] off the runway". He attempted to recover by adding full power to go around, however the airplane exited the runway to the left and came to rest inverted. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the empennage. The pilot reported that there were no pre-accident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. A review of current weather at the accident airport, about the time of the accident, reported the wind 150° at 9 knots. The airplane landed on runway 31.