Prior to landing, the Stearman A75 pilot listened to the automated weather station at the airport in Appleton, Wis., which reported the wind out of the west at 8 knots. During the landing roll, the right wing lifted suddenly, the left wing hit the ground, and the airplane ground looped.
He then asked the air traffic controller what the wind was, and the controller responded that the wind was at 14 knots, gusting to 19 and getting stronger.
Examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot and a passenger were not injured.
The NTSB determined the probable cause as the pilot’s inadequate compensation for the crosswind, which resulted in a loss of directional control.
NTSB Identification: CEN13CA457
This August 2013 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
