Pilot Encounters Wind Shift During Landing, Resulting in Ground Loop (N3256R)

Accident Sequence

The pilot had completed a local flight and was on final approach to the private grass strip where the flight originated. During the approach, the pilot applied a left control correction to compensate for a left quartering headwind. The pilot reported that as the airplane neared the ground, the wind "quit." The airplane touched down with the left main landing gear off the left side of the runway surface. The pilot was subsequently unable to direct the airplane back to the center of the runway. The airplane continued for about 90 feet, at which point the left gear entered a ditch. The left wing then struck a wooden post. Following the impact, the airplane executed a left ground loop.

Environmental Conditions

Weather reported from a station 11 miles from the accident site indicated winds from 060 degrees at 8 knots.