Accident Narrative
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that after a one-hour local flight, he returned to the departure airport and noted a gusting, direct left crosswind. He performed a low pass about 20 feet above the ground, felt the airplane was steady, then executed a go-around and initiated an approach. The pilot recalled making a three-point landing at about 50 miles per hour on the runway centerline. Upon touchdown, a gust of wind lifted the left wing. He attempted to compensate with aileron and throttle but reported being "too slow to regain control of the airplane." Subsequently, the left wing struck the ground, the airplane exited the left side of the runway, and nosed over.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the firewall.
Weather Conditions
The meteorological aerodrome report at the time of the accident indicated wind from 180° at 11 knots, gusting to 16 knots. The airplane landed on runway 27.
Crosswind Landing Technique Reference
The FAA Airplane Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-3B), in the section "Crosswind After-Landing Roll," notes that retaining control on the ground is critical due to the weathervaning effect of the wind. It explains that during the after-landing roll, more aileron is applied to keep the upwind wing from rising, but as the airplane decelerates, aileron effectiveness decreases while the relative wind exerts greater lifting force on the upwind wing. When the airplane is coming to a stop, the aileron control must be held fully into the wind.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there were no pre-accident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.