Flight Purpose and Departure
The flight was intended to travel to an airport located about 32 miles north-northeast of the departure airport. Prior to departure, the automated terminal information service (ATIS) information 'Zulu' indicated that the wind was variable at 4 knots and that runway 11 was in use for landing and departing.
Return and Diversion
Shortly after departing on runway 11, the pilot elected to return to the airport. While on the downwind leg for runway 11, the controller advised that runway 18 was available and provided wind information: 140 degrees at 8 knots. The pilot agreed to land on runway 18 and was cleared for that runway.
Approach and Landing Attempt
The aircraft was a tailwheel-equipped airplane. On final approach, the pilot maintained a left-wing-low attitude to compensate for the crosswind, with 20 degrees of flaps extended and an airspeed of 60 miles per hour. During the flare, when the airplane was approximately three feet above ground level, the left wing lifted abruptly. The pilot applied left aileron, but the airplane yawed to the left. The right wing contacted the runway, and the airplane bounced, coming to rest facing the opposite direction.
Post-Event Actions
After the bounce, the pilot secured the airplane, performed a walk-around inspection, and then taxied to the ramp. The pilot stated that there was no mechanical failure or malfunction.
Weather Observation
A surface weather observation at the accident airport at 1334, about 4 minutes after the accident, indicated the wind was from 070 degrees at 6 knots, with no gusts reported.