NTSB Factual Report

On April 14, 2003, at 1315 eastern daylight time, a Boeing Stearman, A75L3, N4908N, registered to and operated by a commercial pilot, ground looped during landing roll at Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport, Gainesville, Georgia. The personal flight was operated under the provision of Title 14 CFR Part 91 and visual flight rules. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The airplane was substantially damaged, and the pilot and passenger were uninjured. The flight departed Peachtree-Dekalb Airport, Dekalb, Georgia on April 14, 2003 at 1230.

The pilot and passenger departed for a sightseeing/pleasure flight over Lake Lanier, with intentions to stop in Gainesville for refreshments. According to the pilot, he checked the prevailing wind information for the approach at the airport. The prevailing winds were reported at 140 degree at six knots; the pilot chose runway 11 for the approach and landing. The pilot reported that during the landing roll, the airplane ground looped to the left.

No mechanical or flight control problems with the airplane were reported by the pilot prior to the accident. Examination of the airplane revealed the wings were buckled at the main spar, and the left main landing gear separated from the airframe. On page 4 of the Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, optional Recommendations section, the pilot of the accident airplane stated that "additional training in type for pilot" could have prevented the accident.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll resulting in an inadvertent ground loop.