Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a ground-loop and collision with terrain.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot in the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during the landing roll on an unimproved dirt surface, the airplane veered to the right and he subsequently reduced the throttle to the idle position. About 40 knots ground speed, he made a full left rudder pedal application, but the airplane continued to the right. The pilot then applied left brake application and the airplane veered aggressively to the left and ground looped. The right main landing gear collapsed, and the right wing struck the ground, which resulted in substantial damage to the right aileron. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.