Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll with a gusting wind, which resulted in a runway excursion and impact with a tree.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that after the main landing gear touched down, the airplane veered to the right side of the grass runway. The pilot applied left rudder control without affect. The airplane continued to track to the right and the right wing was substantially damaged when it struck a tree. After the pilot exited the airplane, he reported that there was a significant gusting wind from the north. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.