Event Description
A pilot flying a tail-wheel equipped airplane conducted a go-around on the first approach to the destination airport. On the second attempt, the pilot increased the intended landing speed by 15 knots and executed a normal wheel landing. The wind was reported from 280 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 27 knots, with peak winds of 32 knots recorded near the time of the accident.
During the landing rollout, the airplane drifted to the left. The pilot attempted to correct the direction using ailerons and rudder but was unsuccessful. Lowering the tail wheel to increase control authority also failed to maintain directional control. The airplane subsequently ground looped and departed the right side of the runway.
Damage and Final Position
The left landing gear sheared from the fuselage, and the airplane came to rest in a grassy area between the runway and the taxiway. Substantial damage was sustained to the gear box, left wing, and left aileron.
Wind Conditions
The reported wind at the destination airport was from 280 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 27 knots. Peak wind recordings around the accident time indicated gusts up to 32 knots.