NTSB Factual Report

In a written statement, the pilot reported that while on final approach to the destination runway, he noted the windsock indicating a variable crosswind. The airplane touched down normally, in a tail-low configuration with the upwind-wing lowered to accommodate the crosswind. As the airplane was on the landing roll it passed by a hangar, where the pilot maneuvered the controls to adjust for the sudden no-wind condition. Just prior to the tail wheel making contact with the runway surface, the airplane passed a gap between two hangars and correspondingly encountered a gusty crosswind. The airplane partially ground-looped, with the right wing contacting the surface.

The pilot reported that there were no pre impact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane. As a result of the accident, the airplane incurred damage to the right wing.

A routine aviation weather report (METAR) for the airport, issued around the time of the accident, reported winds from 230 degrees at 03 knots.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's inadequate compensation for a wind gust during the landing roll.