On April 1, 2017, a RONALD J BENDER BAKING DUCE NO SERIES was involved in an aviation accident near Willcox, AZ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the landing roll after encountering a dirt devil. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A tailwheel-equipped airplane veered off the runway during landing roll after encountering a sudden strong wind, causing the main landing gear to collapse and substantial wing damage.
Event Summary
During the landing roll of a tailwheel-equipped airplane, the pilot reported reducing engine power to idle and lowering the tail. As the pilot raised the flaps, the airplane encountered a "sudden and strong wind" that caused the airplane to weather-vane. The airplane subsequently veered off the right side of the runway.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to both the right and left wings and both lift struts. The main landing gear collapsed, and the airplane came to rest nose down.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there were no pre-accident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Contributing factors
Causes
Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot
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