Incident Overview
A pilot operating a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported an incident during landing on a narrow, gravel surface airstrip. According to the pilot, as the airplane approached the runway, it encountered a gust of wind from the right, which displaced the aircraft approximately three feet to the left. This lateral movement caused the left wing to make contact with brush lining the left side of the airstrip. The airplane subsequently departed the left side of the runway and descended into a 2-foot deep ditch before coming to a stop.
Aircraft Damage
The landing incident resulted in substantial damage to the left wing spar. No other damage or mechanical issues were reported.
Environmental Conditions
The pilot described the wind conditions as variable, with gusts reaching up to 8 knots. The skies were reported clear, and visibility exceeded 10 miles at the time of the event.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The flight controls and systems were functioning as expected throughout the approach and landing.