NTSB Factual Report

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, while landing on the narrow unimproved airstrip in gusty wind conditions, the airplane drifted right of center, and he was unable to recover. Subsequently, the right wing impacted trees off the right side of the unimproved airstrip.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and empennage.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

An automated weather observation system about 26 nautical miles from the accident site reported, about the time of the accident, the wind from 010° at 9 knots, gusting to 15 knots.

The pilot reported weather conditions as, good other than gusting wind when entering and in the river valley.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control while landing on a narrow, unimproved airstrip in gusting wind conditions.