Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that during the landing roll in the tailwheel equipped airplane, as the rudder lost effectiveness, the airplane veered to the right and then ground looped off of the runway. Subsequently, the left wing struck the ground, which resulted in substantial damage. The pilot reported that he thought he may have inadvertently applied minor application of the right brake due to his foot placement. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that during the landing roll in the tailwheel equipped airplane, as the rudder lost effectiveness, the airplane veered to the right and then ground looped off of the runway. Subsequently, the left wing struck the ground, which resulted in substantial damage. The pilot reported that he thought he may have inadvertently applied minor application of the right brake due to his foot placement. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.