Primary finding
Probable cause
The student pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a runway excursion and subsequent impact with trees.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The student pilot in the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that while on final approach, the airplane drifted off runway centerline and she tried to recenter the airplane prior to touchdown. The airplane touched down and veered right, exited the runway and impacted trees. Both wings were substantially damaged. The student pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.