Accident Details
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, due to tall trees surrounding the airport, he chose to land to the north with a tailwind, citing fewer tree obstacles. He stated that the airplane touched down too far down the runway. Despite attempts to stop the airplane before it overran the runway, the effort was unsuccessful. The airplane subsequently overran the runway, impacted a grass berm, and nosed over.
Aircraft Damage
Substantial damage to the empennage was sustained during the accident sequence. According to the pilot, there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions of the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Advisory Guidance
The Federal Aviation Administration's Advisory Circular (AC) 91-79A discusses hazards associated with runway overruns and the effect of tailwinds on landing distance. It notes that excessive approach speed may lead to landing beyond the intended touchdown point and a higher speed from which to stop. The circular also states that the effect of a tailwind on landing distance is significant and is a factor in determining required landing distance, as it changes the ground speed at touchdown.