What happened
The pilot was operating a tailwheel-equipped PA-18 aircraft during a landing attempt on runway 07. At the time of the incident, wind conditions were reported from 020 degrees at 16 knots, with gusts reaching up to 21 knots. As the aircraft decelerated upon touchdown, a sudden gust of wind lifted the left wing. This aerodynamic disturbance caused the right wing to impact the terrain. Following the event, the pilot communicated with Airport Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) personnel, stating that he had lost control of the aircraft.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the immediate circumstances surrounding the landing. Examination of the wind data confirmed significant gustiness during the final approach and rollout. The physical evidence indicated that the left wing was lifted by a wind gust, leading to an asymmetric lift condition that caused the right wing to contact the ground.
Findings
The primary factor in this incident was the loss of control due to crosswind conditions exceeding the pilot's ability to maintain directional control with a tailwheel aircraft. The gusty winds created a hazardous environment for landing, particularly for aircraft with conventional landing gear configurations that are more susceptible to ground loops and wing-down situations in high winds.