Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control while landing with gusting wind conditions, which resulted in a ground loop.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that, while landing on runway 4, a gust of wind caused the airplane to veer left. The pilot used rudder control and added power to no avail. The airplane ground looped to the right and the left landing gear collapsed. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and the left horizontal stabilizer. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 350° at 8 knots