Accident Overview
During an approach, the pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane encountered heavy traffic behind and a crosswind from the right. While performing a wheel landing, the pilot attempted to maintain speed to clear the runway, but the airplane began to fishtail. Adding power to regain control, the airplane exited the left side of the runway. The left wing impacted the ground, and the airplane came to rest in a lava field.
Pilot Experience
The pilot reported that the accident was due to pilot error resulting from a lack of experience in the airplane. He stated that he did not hold a tailwheel endorsement and had accumulated a total of 3 flight hours in tailwheel airplanes with a certified flight instructor.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.
Weather Conditions
According to the automated weather observation system at the airport, around the time of the accident, the wind was from 220 degrees at 9 knots. The pilot was landing on runway 17.
Additional Information
After multiple attempts, the pilot failed to submit the National Transportation Safety Board form 6120.1.