Waco UPF-7 N30169 accident near Atlanta, Georgia

Probable cause

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

NTSB analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped biplane had previously performed three uneventful full stop taxi back landings to runway 34. After takeoff the pilot remained in the airport traffic pattern for the fourth landing with the reported wind from 300° at 18 knots, gusting to 31 knots. While slowing after touchdown the airplane began drifting to the left. He applied corrective control inputs, but the airplane departed the runway and collided with a taxiway sign resulting in substantial damage to the lower left wing. The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures of the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA24LA125 for the full record.