Accident Summary
An airline transport certificated pilot was landing a tailwheel-equipped airplane at the conclusion of a Title 14 CFR Part 135 sightseeing flight. During the landing roll, a gust of wind lifted the right wing, and the airplane became airborne. The pilot attempted to maintain control using engine power and rudder. When the airplane touched down again, it headed toward the right side of the runway. The pilot reduced power and applied the brakes. The airplane nosed over off the right side of the runway.
Weather Conditions
Aviation Routine Weather Reports (METARs) before and after the accident reported a slight left crosswind of 3 to 5 knots. The pilot reported that the automated terminal information system (ATIS) indicated a slight left crosswind at 8 knots with gusts during the approach. However, during the approach, the pilot experienced a 30-degree right crosswind with gusty conditions.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that as he began his landing approach, the ATIS was reporting a slight left crosswind at 8 knots and gusts. He said that during his landing approach, there was a 30 degree right crosswind with gusty wind conditions. During the landing roll, a gust of wind lifted the right wing, and the airplane became airborne. He attempted to maintain control by application of engine power and rudder, but once the airplane touched down again, it headed toward the right side of the runway. The pilot reduced power and applied the brakes. The airplane nosed over off the right side of the runway.