Incident Overview
A tailwheel airplane involved in glider-tow operations experienced a loss of control during landing, resulting in the aircraft flipping over and coming to rest inverted on the runway. The event occurred after a routine glider release, as the pilot was returning to the airport for a second tow.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, glider-tow operations were conducted with departures into the wind on a 3,000-foot long turf runway, while landings were performed in the opposite direction, with a tailwind. After an uneventful glider release, the airplane began its return. While turning onto a base leg of the airport traffic pattern, a gust of tailwind caused a reduction in airspeed of about 10 mph. In response, the pilot increased engine power, which raised the airspeed from 60 mph to 80 mph, where it remained until touchdown.
The pilot reported that the airplane touched down "too fast," approximately 600 feet down the runway. Concerned that the airplane would collide with gliders positioned at the end of the runway, he applied heavy braking. This action caused the aircraft to flip over, coming to rest inverted on the runway.
Aircraft Examination
An examination conducted by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector revealed substantial damage to the left wing. No preimpact mechanical malfunctions were observed by the inspector, and the pilot did not report any such issues.
Pilot Commentary
The pilot noted that he should have performed a go-around when the tailwind gust upset the approach on base leg.
Weather Conditions
Recorded weather near the accident site indicated a tailwind of 8 knots, gusting to 15 knots.