Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll. The pilot being fatigued likely contributed to his failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that he intended to make a full-stall, 3-point, landing in the tailwheel-equipped airplane with a right crosswind. The pilot stated that the airplane touched down on the right main landing gear and tailwheel, followed by the left main landing gear. He maintained full right aileron input during the landing roll; however, when the airplane had decelerated to about 10 knots, he lost directional control and the airplane ground looped to the right. The airplane's left aileron and left-wing rear spar were substantially damaged during the accident. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane. The pilot stated that he was "hot and tired" after flying for at least 6 hours without the aid of an autopilot on the day of the accident, and that fatigue had contributed, in part, to his failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll.