Incident Overview
A pilot operating a high-performance, tailwheel-equipped bi-plane reported that, during a landing on a turf airstrip, the lower right wing struck a precision approach path indicator (PAPI) control box. The pilot described the airstrip as "long and wide" with no wind. The aircraft was being piloted along the right edge of the runway at the time of the collision.
Pilot Statement
According to the pilot, the accident resulted from a lack of situational awareness during the landing roll. The pilot also noted that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane.
Damage Assessment
The impact caused substantial damage to the lower right-wing spar of the bi-plane. The PAPI lights, which are identified in the airport facility directory, were involved in the incident.
Contributing Factors
No additional factors were reported beyond the pilot's acknowledgment of reduced situational awareness. The pilot did not specify any other contributing elements such as environmental conditions, equipment issues, or human factors beyond his own awareness.