Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot checked the weather prior to landing the tailwheel-equipped airplane and noted variable winds. He planned for 3-point landing, and shortly before touchdown the stall warning sounded. The airplane touched down in a 3-point attitude and began to veer to the right. He applied corrective control inputs with the rudder, aileron, and brakes but the airplane departed the right side of the runway and ground looped. The airplane sustained substantial damage to left wing and elevator, as well as the lower forward fuselage structure. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.