Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll in gusting wind.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that, during the landing roll, the airplane encountered a gust of wind, and veered to the right. The pilot attempted to correct with left rudder and brake and applied full power to abort the landing, however the airplane continued to veer to the right. The pilot then reduced power, and the airplane subsequently exited the right side of the runway and ground looped. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.