NTSB Factual Report

On June 19, 2004, about 1025 Pacific daylight time, a Fairchild 24R-40, N232E, ground looped while on the landing roll at Lincoln Regional Airport/Karl Harder Field, Lincoln, California. Corporate Delaware, Inc., was operating the airplane under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91. The private pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured; the airplane sustained substantial damage. The personal local flight departed Lincoln about 0900. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and a flight plan had not been filed.

In a written statement, the pilot reported that he was attempting his second landing of the day on runway 15. On approach, he configured the airplane for a three-point landing with full flaps. Upon touchdown, he encountered a gust of wind from about 230 degrees and the airplane's right wing lifted up. The airplane veered sideways, and due to the forward momentum, it began to skid. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane.

In a telephone conversation with a National Transportation Safety Board investigator, the pilot stated that, while touching down with the airspeed about 55-65 miles per hour, the airplane encountered a gust of wind. The right wing of the airplane rose, resulting in the airplane veering to the left. The pilot input right aileron and rudder in an effort to counteract the veer, and the airplane began moving back toward the centerline. As the airplane continued down the runway, the right main gear separated, which resulted in the propeller blades and left main gear simultaneously breaking away. The airplane ground looped 180 degrees, and came to rest heading 320 degrees.

NTSB Probable Cause

the pilot's failure to maintain directional control and inadequate compensation for gusty wind conditions, which resulted in a ground loop and collision with the runway.