Accident Overview
An airplane experienced a loss of directional control during landing, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing and left horizontal stabilizer. The incident occurred when the tailwheel settled on the runway, causing the aircraft to veer to the left.
Sequence of Events
As the tailwheel made contact with the runway surface, the airplane began to turn left. The pilot responded by increasing engine power in an effort to avoid a snow bank located adjacent to the runway. Although the pilot successfully prevented contact with the snow bank, the right wing subsequently stalled and dropped, making contact with the ground. Following the right wing strike, the left main landing gear, left wing, and left horizontal stabilizer also contacted the ground before the airplane came to rest.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that he inadvertently had his toes on the brakes during the landing, which resulted in the initial loss of directional control on the runway. The pilot did not specify the aircraft type, registration, or other identifying details.
Damage Assessment
The left wing and left horizontal stabilizer sustained substantial damage. No other damage was reported.
Probable Cause
The pilot's inadvertent application of brakes during the landing roll caused a loss of directional control, leading to a wing stall and subsequent ground contact.