Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to attain/maintain directional control during landing that resulted in a ground loop and impact with terrain.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The commercial pilot stated that the approach to the runway was normal and during the subsequent landing on all three landing gear wheels, a quartering tailwind raised the airplane tail and the right wing. The airplane ground looped, and the left wing struck the ground. The pilot reported there was no mechanical malfunction/failure of the airplane. The pilot stated that damage to airplane was minor; however, a photo showed the left wing sustained structural damage inboard of the wing tip. There was also damage to the left wing aileron and elevator.
Source record
Factual narrative
The commercial pilot stated that the approach to the runway was normal and during the subsequent landing on all three landing gear wheels, a quartering tailwind raised the airplane tail and the right wing. The airplane ground looped, and the left wing struck the ground. The pilot reported there was no mechanical malfunction/failure of the airplane. The pilot stated that damage to airplane was minor; however, a photo showed the left wing sustained structural damage inboard of the wing tip. There was also damage to the left wing aileron and elevator.