Tailwheel Aircraft Ground Loops After Wingtip Strikes Brush During Beach Takeoff

Accident Details

A pilot was departing from a tidal beach in a tailwheel-equipped airplane. During the takeoff roll, the pilot reported losing visual reference through the windscreen because the sun was in his eyes. This loss of visibility led the pilot to allow the right wingtip to contact alder brush. The contact with the brush forced the airplane to ground loop.

Aircraft Damage

The ground loop resulted in substantial damage to both wings and the left horizontal stabilizer. The pilot indicated that no preaccident mechanical anomalies existed with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that the sun's position directly in his line of sight caused him to lose visual reference during the takeoff roll. He acknowledged that his action of allowing the wingtip to contact the brush was a consequence of the obscured vision.