Accident Sequence
During the approach, the pilot of the tailwheel-equipped biplane flew at an altitude of 20 to 30 feet above the runway until reaching midfield. The biplane then touched down, bounced back into the air, touched down again, and bounced a second time before touching down for a third time in a nose-high attitude. After the third touchdown, the biplane veered to the right, the right wing dipped, and the biplane cartwheeled, coming to rest inverted.
Pilot Experience
The pilot had accumulated 60 hours of flight experience in the biplane.
Previous Owner's Advice
The previous owner had advised the pilot that landing the biplane required patience to achieve a perfect landing. He also noted that attempting to land the biplane on asphalt with limited experience could cause repeated bumping. Additionally, the previous owner warned that pulling back on the control stick too soon during landing could result in ballooning and porpoising.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause is the pilot's improper recovery from a bounced landing and failure to maintain directional control, which resulted in a ground loop. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's minimal experience in the airplane make and model.