Incident Overview
A pilot was conducting touch-and-go takeoffs and landings on Runway 19. During the takeoff roll, the pilot reported encountering a dust devil, which caused the airplane to ground loop.
Weather Conditions
The reported surface winds were from 150 degrees at 10 knots, gusting to 16 knots. No other weather information was provided in the source.
Pilot Experience
The pilot had accumulated 15 hours in this tailwheel airplane, of which 8 hours were as pilot-in-command (PIC).
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that the pilot improperly used the flight controls and brakes while attempting to maintain directional control. This improper use led to the loss of directional control and the subsequent ground loop.