Factual Report
On 6 May 2003 at 1300 hrs, a privately operated Europa, registration G-JULZ, sustained damage during a ground loop at Sandtoft, Doncaster. The aircraft, manufactured in 1996 and equipped with one Rotax 914 F3 piston engine, was occupied by the pilot only; no passengers were on board. The pilot, who held an Airline Transport Pilot's Licence and had 8,500 hours total flying experience (33 on type), reported no injuries.
Sequence of Events
The pilot departed Sandtoft at 1230 hrs with a wind from the right at 10 to 12 knots. Upon return approximately one hour later, the wind had increased to 15 knots across the runway with occasional gusts to 18 knots. Having previously landed the aircraft in a 15-knot crosswind, the pilot chose to initiate an approach while maintaining the option to go around if necessary. The landing was normal, on the runway centre-line, without drift and with no control problems. However, during the ground roll, directional control was lost and the aircraft ground-looped to the left, turning through 180 degrees before coming to rest. The direction of the ground loop was opposite to that expected from a 'weathercock' effect given the wind direction.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was a mono-wheel version of the type, featuring a tail-wheel positioned aft of the rudder, operated by a system of springs from the control surface. The kit manufacturer's documentation listed a maximum demonstrated cross-wind component of 15 knots.
Damage
The accident resulted in damage to the propeller blades and the out-rigger leg and fairing.
Pilot Assessment
The pilot, who was also the builder of the aircraft, considered that his decision to land in the cross-wind conditions, coupled with his handling of the aircraft, was largely responsible for the accident. He noted, however, that the springs operating the tail-wheel were slacker than they had been when the aircraft was first completed and may have reduced the effectiveness of the steering available from the tail-wheel when rudder deflection was applied.