Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate landing flare that resulted in a hard landing and a ground loop.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot/owner of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during landing the left main gear collapsed resulting in a ground loop. He stated to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector that after landing the airplane seemed to oscillate then it pulled to the right, resulting in a ground loop into the grass on the right side of the runway. He also stated that he was not used to carrying a passenger in the rear seat. A postaccident inspection by an FAA inspector noted damage to the engine and strut mount assembly that was consistent with a hard landing.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot/owner of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during landing the left main gear collapsed resulting in a ground loop. The pilot stated to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector that after landing the airplane seemed to oscillate then it pulled to the right, resulting in a ground loop into the grass on the right side of the runway. He also stated he was not used to carrying a passenger in the rear seat. The FAA inspector examined the airplane and noted damage to the engine and strut mount assembly that was consistent with a hard landing.