Accident Description
The operator reported that the pilot taxied the high-wing airplane from the ramp along the parallel taxiway to the active runway (27) in the presence of a quartering tailwind. As the pilot initiated a right turn at the taxiway intersection, the airplane did not respond to control inputs and continued straight ahead.
Pilot Actions
The pilot applied full right brake and rudder, but the airplane continued to track forward and departed the hard surface taxiway. It continued off the taxiway and traveled an additional 80 feet through rough terrain before coming to rest in a nose-down attitude.
Aircraft Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing.
Weather Conditions
At the time of the accident, winds were from 260 degrees at 27 knots, gusting to 38 knots.
Mechanical Findings
No pre-accident mechanical malfunctions or failures were reported with the control system or brakes.