Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing. Contributing to the accident was the crosswind.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that while landing on runway 07 with the wind from 160 degrees at 5 knots gusting to 20 knots, he performed a wheel landing then lowered the tailwheel. As the tailwheel contacted the runway, the airplane yawed to the right and ground looped resulting in damage to the left wing, left aileron, and left horizontal stabilizer. The pilot did not report any mechanical failures or malfunctions to the airplane or any of its systems prior to the accident.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot of the Helio H-295 stated that while landing on runway 07 with the wind from 160 degrees at 5 knots with gusts to 20 knots, he performed a wheel landing then lowered the tailwheel. As the tailwheel contacted the runway, the airplane yawed to the right and ground looped resulting in damage to the left wing, left aileron, and left horizontal stabilizer. The pilot did not report any mechanical failures or malfunctions to the airplane or any of its systems prior to the accident.