Overview
A pilot experienced a loss of directional control during landing at Columbia Airport, resulting in a ground loop and damage to the aircraft. The incident occurred when the aircraft encountered a wind gust during the landing roll.
Airport Information
Columbia Airport features two runways: Runway 17-35, an asphalt surface measuring 4,670 feet in length, and Runway 29-11, a shorter turf runway 2,000 feet long.
Pilot Actions
According to the pilot, while inbound to the airport, he attempted to contact the airport on the Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) for an advisory but received no response. He then listened to the Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS), which reported winds from 280 degrees at 6 knots. Based on this information, the pilot elected to land on Runway 17.
Accident Sequence
During the landing roll, a strong wind gust came from the right rear. The pilot reported losing directional control and was unable to regain it despite applying full rudder and braking. The aircraft ground looped into a ditch, resulting in damage to the fuselage structure at the landing gear attach points.
Damage
The fuselage structure sustained damage at the landing gear attach points due to the ground loop into the ditch.