What happened
A pilot was performing a three-point full stall landing on runway 17. The pilot entered the traffic pattern at a 45-degree angle to the right on the downwind leg. According to the Automated Weather Observation System (AWOS), the wind was reported as 170 degrees at 4 knots; however, the pilot noted that the windsock was not visible during final approach.
Immediately upon touchdown, the aircraft's tail swung to the left. The pilot attempted to regain directional control by applying full left rudder, but the maneuver was unsuccessful. The tailwheel equipped airplane turned 90 degrees to the right and began skidding on the left main gear, causing the aircraft to tilt to the left. The left wing and horizontal tail surfaces made contact with the runway surface. The aircraft eventually came to rest after completing a 180-degree turn.
The investigation
The investigation noted that while the AWOS reported light winds, the windsock at midfield indicated a 90-degree right crosswind of approximately 10 knots. The Airport/Facility Directory for Columbia Airport indicates that varying wind direction and velocity may be encountered at the midpoint of runway 17-35 due to terrain features and wind flow patterns. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or engine malfunctions during the flight.