Event Description
A solo private pilot was landing a tailwheel-equipped airplane on a dry hard-surfaced runway at the completion of a personal flight under Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. During touchdown, the airplane bounced slightly. The pilot added engine power to cushion the landing. As the airplane touched down again, a gust of wind pushed the airplane's tail to the left, causing the airplane to ground loop to the right.
Damage
The left main landing gear leg collapsed, and the left wing struck the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage.
Pilot's Remarks
The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane. He noted that the airplane had recently been converted from skis to wheels. In his report to the National Transportation Safety Board, the pilot stated that he should have flown with a flight instructor before attempting a flight in a wheel-equipped airplane, or selected a grass or gravel landing site.