Incident Overview
A student pilot was conducting landing practice in a tailwheel-equipped airplane. The first eight landings were performed normally under calm wind conditions. During the ninth landing, the pilot perceived a gust of wind just before touchdown. This resulted in the right wheel striking the runway with excessive force, driving the wheel hub upward into the strut. Subsequently, the airplane ground looped and flipped over onto its back.
Pilot Observations
After the accident, the pilot stated that if he had recognized the wind gust sooner, he could have initiated a go-around. He also noted that had he been aware the wheel hub had broken, he would have increased throttle to keep the nose of the airplane elevated.
Aircraft Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing. No other damage details were provided.
Investigation Findings
The investigation source did not specify any further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, location, date, time of day, weather conditions beyond the calm wind and gust, or any involvement of air traffic control. No information on occupants, injuries, or fatalities was reported.