Aircraft veers off runway after gust lifts wing during wheel landing (N3917Z)

What happened

The accident occurred under windy conditions with winds reported from 190 degrees at 10 knots, including gusts reaching 20 knots. Anticipating a challenging crosswind environment, the pilot elected to perform a wheel landing on runway 14. As the aircraft decelerated and the tail section settled onto the pavement, a sudden gust of wind lifted the right wing. The pilot attempted to correct the attitude using cross controls but was unable to lower the wing sufficiently. Consequently, the airplane veered off the left side of the runway and collided with an anemometer pole.

Findings

The primary factor contributing to the loss of control was the gusty crosswind condition encountered during the landing phase. The pilot's decision to execute a wheel landing in these conditions likely contributed to the difficulty in maintaining directional control once the tail settled. The inability to counteract the lift generated by the gust on the right wing resulted in the aircraft leaving the paved surface.

Safety message

Pilots should carefully evaluate wind conditions before attempting wheel landings. Crosswind components and gustiness can significantly affect controllability during the critical phase of touchdown and rollout. Alternative landing techniques or runway selections may be necessary to maintain safe control margins.