Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll in gusting wind conditions.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
According to the pilot in the tailwheel-equipped biplane, he was unable to determine the wind direction during his approach. He circled the airport multiple times and attempted to communicate on the common advisory traffic frequency.
During the landing roll on runway 25, the biplane experienced an "unexpected turn to (the) left similar to being weathercocked."
The biplane exited the left side of the runway and continued across descending terrain before it nosed over.
The METAR nearest to the accident airport reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 170° at 16kts and gusting to 19kts.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the rudder.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA18CA019