305A(0-1A) N41362 accident near Midland, Texas

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing in gusting wind conditions.

NTSB analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that he performed a three-point landing in gusting wind conditions. During the landing roll, the wind lifted the right wing and he attempted to correct with right aileron, but the right wing struck the ground. The airplane then skidded to the left and he attempted to correct with rudder before the left wing struck the ground. The airplane nosed down and came to rest on the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the top of the fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

The pilot reported that he and other pilots in the area observed dust devils during the flight. Based on the observed conditions, it is possible that that airplane encountered a dust devil during landing.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN26LA307 for the full record.