Primary finding
Probable cause
the pilot's inadequate compensation for the existing wind conditions and his failure to maintain directional control of the aircraft.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he was landing uphill on the private airstrip with a gusting left crosswind. The pilot said that he lost control after touchdown and the aircraft ground looped, damaging the wings and landing gear.
Source record
Factual narrative
On February 12, 1994, at 1315 Pacific standard time, a Cessna 172K, N7333G, ground looped on landing at a private airstrip near New Cuyama, California. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed for the operation. The aircraft incurred substantial damage. The certificated private pilot, the sole occupant, sustained minor injuries. The flight originated at Santa Monica, California, on the day of the mishap at 1158 as a personal cross-country flight to the accident site. In a telephone interview, the pilot reported that he was landing uphill on the private airstrip with a gusting left crosswind. The pilot said that he lost control after touchdown and the aircraft ground looped, damaging the wings and landing gear. -