Waco UPF-7 N29969 accident near Paso Robles, California

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to adequately compensate for crosswind conditions, which resulted in a loss of directional control during the landing roll.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, during the landing roll in light and variable wind, a “puff” of wind from the east caused the tail, which was on the runway, to swing around. The pilot added power in an attempt to regain directional control; however, he did not apply power soon enough. The right wing touched the runway, and the airplane impacted a taxiway intersection sign. The airplane's wing spars were structurally damaged, and the upper right wing tip was crushed. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR13CA146 for the full record.