NTSB Factual Report

The airplane was substantially damaged when the right wing contacted the ground during landing. The pilot reported that as the flight approached the intended destination, he monitored the Automatic Terminal Information Service (ATIS) and determined that the prevailing winds were from 190 degrees at 16 knots, with gusts to 26 knots. As he entered the traffic pattern for runway 20 (6,000 feet by 100 feet, concrete) he observed the windsock, which confirmed the winds were down the runway. He noted that the airplane touched down about 300 feet past the runway threshold. The pilot stated "the touchdown was a good wheel landing" and he initially maintained control of the airplane. However, a "strong crosswind tipped up one wing" and although he was able to correct, the encounter caused the airplane "to be headed off the runway into a berm." He elected to initiate a go-around and added full power in an attempt to clear the berm, with the intention of re-entering the traffic pattern. The pilot reported that after the aircraft became airborne, he "experienced a severe crosswind" that caused the right wing to contact the ground. The airport Automated Surface Observation System (ASOS), at 1353, recorded winds from 170 degrees at 16 knots, gusting to 26 knots. At 1453, the recorded winds were from 180 degrees at 16 knots, gusting to 23 knots.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain control of the aircraft during landing. A contributing factor was the gusty, crosswind condition.