Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that during the landing roll in the tail wheel equipped airplane, while about 35 miles per hour (MPH), it began to turn to the right. He was able to bring the airplane back to runway centerline with opposite rudder control; however, the airplane again quickly turned right to which he was unable to regain control by applying rudder and brakes. The airplane subsequently tipped on to the left main landing gear which resulted in the left wing and horizontal stabilizer to strike the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left aileron, horizontal stabilizer, and elevator. The pilot reported no preimpact 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 tail wheel equipped airplane, while about 35 miles per hour (MPH), it began to turn to the right. He was able to bring the airplane back to runway centerline with opposite rudder control; however, the airplane again quickly turned right to which he was unable to regain control by applying rudder and brakes. The airplane subsequently tipped on to the left main landing gear which resulted in the left wing and horizontal stabilizer to strike the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left aileron, horizontal stabilizer, and elevator. The pilot reported no preimpact malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.