Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, resulting in a ground loop and substantial damage to the airplane. Factors contributing to the accident were a tailwind, and the pilot's decision to land downwind.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The private pilot reported he was landing his tailwheel airplane on a hard-surfaced runway with approximately a 9 knot tailwind. During the landing roll, the airplane swerved, and when he could not correct the swerve with the rudder and brakes, he attempted to rapidly apply engine power to gain more control, but the engine hesitated, and the airplane did a ground loop to the right, striking the left wing on the runway. During the ground loop the left aileron sustained substantial damage. The pilot indicated that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane.
Source record
Factual narrative
The private pilot reported he was landing his tailwheel airplane on a hard-surfaced runway with approximately a 9 knot tailwind. During the landing roll, the airplane swerved, and when he could not correct the swerve with the rudder and brakes, he attempted to rapidly apply engine power to gain more control, but the engine hesitated, and the airplane did a ground loop to the right, striking the left wing on the runway. During the ground loop the left aileron sustained substantial damage. The pilot indicated that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane.