What happened
Following a two-hour flight, the pilot was performing the landing phase of the flight on runway 11R. Prior to touchdown, the local controller informed the pilot that the wind was originating from 300 degrees at 7 knots. The pilot executed a standard three-point touchdown and initially rolled out without difficulty.
As the aircraft decelerated, a quartering tailwind caused the airplane to swerve. During this maneuver, the pilot attempted to use corrective rudder pressure; however, the aircraft continued to deviate from the centerline. The loss of control resulted in a ground loop, during which a wing made contact with the runway.
Findings
- The pilot failed to increase engine power to assist in maintaining directional control during the deceleration phase.
- A quartering tailwind contributed to the swerving motion of the aircraft.