NTSB Factual Report

The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that during the landing touch down in gusty wind conditions, a gust of wind lifted the left wing. He further reported that he advanced the throttle to abort the landing, and the airplane drifted to the right of the runway. The main wheels touched down on the grass, and the airplane abruptly stopped and nosed over.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the empennage and left lift strut.

According to the pilot there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

A review of recorded data from the automated weather observation station located about 10 miles to the west, revealed that, about 23 minutes after the accident the wind was reported as 330 degrees true at 13 knots, and visibility 10 statute miles. The airplane was landing on runway 04.

As a safety recommendation, the pilot reported that this accident may have been prevented with more flight time in the airplane type, and that his feet may have been pushing on the toe brakes.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a runway excursion. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's incorrect brake application during the runway excursion, which resulted in a nose over.