Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a ground loop, runway excursion, and subsequent landing gear collapse.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The private pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane was returning to his home airport after refueling at a nearby airport. The pilot reported there was moderate turbulence while on final approach to land. Shortly after touchdown, the pilot reported that the left wing lifted and that he “did not correct fast enough and then overcorrected.” The airplane ground looped, exited the runway, and the right main landing gear collapsed, resulting in the right wing and right elevator sustaining substantial damage. The pilot reported there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane.