Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain airplane control during an attempted go-around in gusting wind conditions.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that after touchdown in the tailwheel-equipped airplane a gust of wind lifted the airplane’s right wing, turning it to the left. The pilot added full power to attempt a go-around; however, the airplane continued to the left and became airborne about 90 degrees from the runway heading. The airplane touched back down on the grass and collided with a ditch, which resulted in substantial damage to the firewall. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that after touchdown in the tailwheel equipped airplane, a gust of wind lifted the airplane’s right wing, turning it to the left. The pilot added full power to attempt a go-around; however, the airplane continued to the left and became airborne approximately 90 degrees from runway heading. The airplane touched back down on the grass and collided with a ditch, which resulted in substantial damage to the firewall. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operations.