NTSB Factual Report

The purpose of the flight was to re-familiarize the front seat pilot, who was a perspective buyer, with the tailwheel-equipped airplane. The owner of the airplane, who was also a rated pilot, occupied the rear seat. During the landing roll on runway 16, the front seat pilot noted that the airplane started to veer to the right. The rear seat pilot took control of the airplane and added power attempting to go-around. The airplane exited the runway as it continued to veer to the right and became airborne after striking a knoll adjacent to the runway. Subsequently, the left wing struck the ground and the airplane landed hard and impacted the concrete windsock segmented circle. Examination of the airplane revealed that the fuselage and wings were structurally damaged. The rear seat pilot reported no anomalies with the flight control system or engine. Recorded weather data revealed that 12 minutes prior to the accident, the wind was from 330-degrees at 5 knots. As of October 27, 2008, no Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report (NTSB Form 6120.1) was received from either pilot. However, both pilots submitted written statement to the Federal Aviation Administration.

NTSB Probable Cause

The front seated pilot's inadequate compensation for the right quartering tailwind and failure to maintain directional control. Also causal was the rear seated pilot's inadequate remedial action and failure to regain directional control.