Incident Overview
A pilot operating a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during the landing roll in crosswind conditions, the airplane encountered a wind gust. The tail swung to the right, and the airplane veered off the runway to the left. During the runway excursion, the right main landing gear impacted an airport sign and subsequently collapsed.
Damage Assessment
The right wing lift strut sustained substantial damage as a result of the incident. The pilot noted no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane.
Environmental Conditions
The automated weather observing system at the airport near the time of the accident reported wind direction at 330 degrees true with a speed of 7 knots. The pilot stated that he landed on runway 5.