Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, resulting in a ground-loop and substantial damage to the airplane.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The commercial pilot reported he was practicing touch-and-go landings in his homebuilt, tailwheel-equipped airplane at an off airport site, which required a correction for a variable left crosswind. The airplane was operated under Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. The pilot said that during touchdown on the mud-covered site, a gust of wind pushed the airplane to the right, and it subsequently ground-looped to the left. The right main landing gear collapsed, and the right wing struck the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage. The pilot indicated that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane, and noted in his report to the NTSB that the accident could have been avoided if he had been proficient in crosswind landings at off airport sites.

Contributing factors

cause Directional control — Not attained/maintained
cause Pilot
Effect on operation

Conditions

Weather: VMC, wind 000/20kt, vis 10sm

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