Landing and Go-Around
The pilot of a Stearman airplane landed on runway 14. According to the pilot, shortly after touchdown, a strong gust of wind caused the aircraft to begin drifting. In response, the pilot added full power and initiated an aborted landing procedure.
During the go-around, the airplane touched down on open land multiple times while attempting to become airborne. The pilot observed power poles and power lines ahead and determined that climbing over them was not possible. He then lowered the nose and attempted to fly under the lines.
Impact and Final Position
While maneuvering under the lines, the left wing struck a pole guy wire, resulting in the wing being torn off. The airplane subsequently came to a halt in a nose-down attitude, resting on its nose.
Weather Conditions
Recorded wind data from a location 6 miles north of the accident site indicated winds from 210 degrees at 8 knots. In contrast, witnesses at the scene reported that the wind was calm.
Damage
The aircraft sustained structural damage including the separation of the left wing.