On 21 Jul 2014, a PIPER PA 18-150 A150 was involved in an aviation accident near Phoenix, AZ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll in variable wind conditions, resulting in a ground-loop. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A tail-wheel airplane sustained substantial damage to its right wing when it veered off the runway after landing with a quartering tailwind in variable wind conditions, ground-looped, and struck a runway sign.
Accident Details
During the landing of a tail-wheel equipped airplane, the pilot encountered variable wind conditions. The aircraft touched down with a quartering tailwind, leading to a loss of directional control.
Sequence of Events
Following touchdown, the airplane veered off the runway to the right. It then entered a ground-loop, during which it impacted a runway sign. The aircraft came to rest back on the runway after the excursion.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to its right wing during the ground-loop. No other damage was reported.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Contributing factors
Causes
Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot