Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a ground-loop.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that during landing with a crosswind in the tailwheel equipped airplane, a gust of wind hit the airplane which ground-looped to the right. The left main landing gear collapsed, and the left wing, left aileron, and the left horizontal stabilizer were substantially damaged. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot reported that during landing with a crosswind in the tailwheel equipped airplane, a gust of wind hit the airplane which ground-looped to the right. The left main landing gear collapsed, and the left wing, left aileron, and the left horizontal stabilizer were substantially damaged. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.