Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control upon landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that he was returning to land when, upon touchdown, a gust of wind lifted his left wing. Despite his control inputs the airplane ground-looped. At the time of the accident, the wind at the accident airport was reported to be from 240 degrees at 7 knots. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe and engine that would have precluded normal flight.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot stated he was returning to land from a student cross country flight. Upon touchdown, he reported that a gust of wind lifted his left wing; despite the pilot's control inputs, the airplane ground looped. At the time of the accident, the accident airport reported winds from 240 degrees at 7 knots. The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe and engine that would have precluded normal flight.