Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that following a normal three-point landing with a 30-degree left crosswind in a tailwheel-equipped airplane, the nose of the airplane started to veer to the left. The pilot stated that he over corrected when he applied right rudder, and the airplane ground looped, which resulted in the right wing striking the ground. He added that he may have accidentally pressed the brake while applying right rudder. The right aileron and right wing were structurally damaged. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that following a normal three-point landing with a 30-degree left crosswind in a tailwheel-equipped airplane, the nose of the airplane started to veer to the left. The pilot stated that he over corrected when he applied right rudder, and the airplane ground looped, which resulted in the right wing striking the ground. He added that he may have accidentally pressed the brake while applying right rudder. The right aileron and right wing were structurally damaged. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.