Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll with a gusting wind.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that, during the landing roll, the airplane encountered a wind gust and veered to the right. He attempted to correct back to runway centerline; however, the left wing dipped down, the main landing gear collapsed, and the airplane ground looped. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.