Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that after two uneventful wheel landings in a tailwheel-equipped airplane he attempted a three point landing. During touchdown the pilot reported he was “carrying too much speed” and “lost control” of the airplane. The airplane exited the right side of the runway and ground looped. During the accident sequence, the left wing struck the ground and was substantially damaged. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine prior to the accident. At the time of the accident, the airport’s automated weather system reported the wind as calm.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that after two uneventful wheel landings in a tailwheel-equipped airplane he attempted a three point landing. During touchdown the pilot reported he was “carrying too much speed” and “lost control” of the airplane. The airplane exited the right side of the runway and ground looped. During the accident sequence, the left wing struck the ground and was substantially damaged. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine prior to the accident. At the time of the accident, the airport’s automated weather system reported the wind as calm.