Accident Details
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during a stop-and-go takeoff and landing maneuver, the tailwheel lifted off the ground during the takeoff roll. Subsequently, the airplane encountered a significant wind from the left. The pilot applied left aileron and right rudder to compensate, but the airplane ground-looped to the left.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and the right aileron. The pilot stated that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Wind Conditions
The airport's Meteorological Aerodrome Report, issued around the time of the accident, indicated wind from 030° at 8 knots, gusting to 14 knots, with the wind direction variable between 340° and 070°. The airplane was taking off from runway 9.
Pilot's Comments
The pilot noted that a slower application of throttle and keeping the tailwheel on the ground longer during the takeoff roll would help prevent this type of accident in the future.