NTSB Factual Report

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during the landing roll with a quartering tailwind, he lost directional control, departed the runway, and impacted a tree. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage.

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

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's decision to land with a quartering tail wind, and failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in runway excursion, and collision with a tree.