Accident Details
A pilot experienced a ground loop during the landing roll of a wheel landing, leading to substantial damage to the airplane. The pilot had planned to make the landing at a higher-than-normal airspeed in anticipation of strong surface winds.
Pilot Account
During the landing roll, after the tailwheel settled onto the runway, the pilot noticed that the wind velocity was less than anticipated and that the ground speed was "pretty fast." Due to the increased groundspeed, the wings were still producing some lift, and although the landing gear remained on the runway, the full weight of the airplane was not on the gear.
The airplane swerved to the right, and the pilot regained directional control. It then swerved to the left, and the pilot was unable to regain control, resulting in a ground loop. The tailwheel traveled into the grass alongside the runway, and the right wing and right stabilizer contacted the ground.
After the ground loop, the pilot was able to taxi the airplane back onto the runway, but reported that it would not taxi straight.
Postaccident Findings
The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions of the airplane prior to the accident. A postaccident examination revealed that the airplane sustained substantial damage to the aft fuselage.