Bellanca 7 ECA, VH-SLO, Bankstown NSW, 12 October 1986

The pilot reported that gusty and turbulent conditions existed as he made his landing approach. During the flare the aircraft ballooned to about 10 feet, and after the subsequent touchdown the aircraft veered to the left before coming to rest on its nose and left wing tip. The pilot had only limited experience in tailwheel type aircraft. At the time of the accident the wind was gusty, with the crosswind component fluctuating around the maximum for the aircraft type. It was likely that the aircraft was affected by a strong gust during the flare, and the pilot was subsequently unable to maintain directional control.