NTSB Factual Report

The pilot reported that after touchdown in the tailwheel equipped airplane, a gust of wind lifted the airplane’s right wing, turning it to the left. The pilot added full power to attempt a go-around; however, the airplane continued to the left and became airborne approximately 90 degrees from runway heading. The airplane touched back down on the grass and collided with a ditch, which resulted in substantial damage to the firewall. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operations.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain airplane control during an attempted go-around in gusting wind conditions.