Accident Overview
A pilot flying an experimental amateur-built tailwheel airplane reported that during the landing flare on runway 8, a gust of wind from the south lifted the right wing. The pilot had configured the airplane with full flaps and an approach speed of about 60 knots. To counter the wing rise, the pilot applied right aileron. However, the airplane touched down with a left side load, causing the airplane to veer right during the landing roll. Subsequently, the left main landing gear wheel separated from the airplane. The airplane then veered left and sustained substantial damage to the lower left side of the fuselage.
Pilot's Comments
The pilot noted that the winds were shifting and expressed that he "should have taken another look at it or found another runway for the newer developing wind conditions."
Weather Conditions
METARs at the accident airport are issued approximately every 20 minutes. Ten minutes before the accident, the reported wind was from 080° at 6 knots. Ten minutes after the accident, the wind was from 140° at 5 knots, indicating a shift in wind direction.
Mechanical Status
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.