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 stated that he lost control of the airplane after touchdown, and the airplane ground looped to the left. The right main landing gear collapsed, and the right wing struck the ground. The pilot reported that the winds were calm and there was no mechanical malfunction.
Source record
Factual narrative
On August 30, 1995, about 1445 eastern daylight time, an Insua L-21 homebuilt airplane, N2446V, piloted by the registered owner, sustained substantial damage when the right wing struck the ground during the landing roll in Petersburg, Virginia. The private pilot and one passenger, the sole occupants, reported no injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the pleasure flight, no flight plan was filed. The flight operated under 14 CFR Part 91, and originated in Florence, South Carolina approximately 1115. The pilot stated that he landed at Petersburg, Virginia to refuel, and intended to continue on to Cambridge, Maryland. He reported that he landed on runway 5, but "...lost control on touchdown...plane ground looped to [the] left... ." The right main landing gear collapsed and the right wing struck the ground. The pilot reported that the winds were calm, and that there was no mechanical malfunction. -