Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a ground loop.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that during the landing roll in gusty wind conditions, a gust of wind lifted the left wing, the airplane ground looped to the right. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left aileron. According to the pilot there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation. A review of recorded data from the automated weather observation station located about 6 miles to the north, revealed that, at 1256 PDT, conditions were wind calm, visibility 10 statute miles, and sky clear.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that during the landing roll in gusty wind conditions, a gust of wind lifted the left wing, the airplane ground looped to the right. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left aileron. According to the pilot there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation. A review of recorded data from the automated weather observation station located about 6 miles to the north, revealed that, at 1256 PDT, conditions were wind calm, visibility 10 statute miles, and sky clear.