Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s excessive use of brakes during the landing roll in a gusting crosswind, which resulted in a noseover.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, during the landing on runway 33, he experienced gusting crosswinds. In an attempt to maintain control during the landing roll, the pilot applied the brakes, and the tailwheel-equipped airplane nosed over. The firewall, both wings, including the ailerons and flaps, and the vertical stabilizer were substantially damaged. The pilot reported that the wind was from 280 degrees at 3 to 6 knots gusting to 8 to 10 knots. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal flight.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that during his landing sequence he experienced gusting crosswinds. In the attempt to maintain control on roll-out the pilot applied the brakes and the airplane nosed over. Subsequently, the firewall, both wings including the ailerons and flaps, and the vertical stabilizer were substantially damaged. The airplane had a tailwheel conversion. At the time of the accident the winds were reported from 280 degrees at 6 knots gusting to 10 knots. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal flight.