Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during an attempted go around after landing, resulting in a runway excursion.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, during the landing roll in the tailwheel-equipped airplane, a gust of wind struck the airplane and it veered to the left. The pilot said that he added full power to conduct a go around; however, he could not get the airplane to align with the runway centerline. The airplane exited the runway surface and impacted a mobile home, substantially damaging the fuselage and both wings. Shortly after the accident the weather observation system at the airport reported that the wind was variable at five knots. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that during the landing roll in a tailwheel-equipped airplane, a gust of wind struck the airplane and it veered to the left. The pilot said that full power was added to conduct a go around; however, the pilot could not get the airplane to “point down the runway.” The airplane exited the runway environment and the airplane impacted a mobile home, substantially damaging the fuselage and both wings. The weather observation system at the accident airport reported shortly after the accident that the wind was variable at 5 knots. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine prior to the accident.