Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the landing roll.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, during the landing roll in a tailwheel-equipped airplane, he lost directional control which resulted in a ground loop. During the ground loop, the airplane’s left wing impacted the runway surface which resulted in substantial damage to the left wing and left aileron. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.