Accident Details
A tailwheel-equipped airplane sustained substantial damage during a takeoff abort that resulted in a ground loop. The pilot reported that during the initial takeoff roll, she applied additional aileron input to counteract a wind gust. However, the crosswind abruptly diminished. The airplane began to fishtail, prompting the pilot to abort the takeoff and apply the brakes. The airplane then veered to the right and ground looped.
Damage
The accident caused substantial damage to the left-wing aft spar and engine mounts. No preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions were reported by the pilot that would have precluded normal operation.
Weather Conditions
The automated weather observation station at the airport recorded wind from 310° at 9 knots, gusting to 17 knots, approximately 5 minutes before the accident. The airplane had departed on runway 04.