N52558

On March 20, 1999, at 1220 hours mountain standard time, a Boeing Stearman A75N1 (PT17), N52558, ground looped while landing on runway 22L at Falcon Field Airport, Mesa, Arizona. The aircraft, originating from Falcon Field about 1130, was returning from a local area personal flight conducted under 14 CFR Part 91 of the Federal Aviation Regulations. Operated by the pilot, the aircraft sustained substantial damage. The airline transport pilot and his passenger were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed.

In a telephone interview with the Safety Board, the pilot said this was the third flight of the day and the winds "were acting up." The wind checks on final from the tower were 140 degrees at 10 knots with gusts, and a second one of 160 degrees at 15 knots shortly thereafter. The pilot stated that he touched down in a wheel landing, rolled a short distance, and the aircraft suddenly turned 90 degrees to the left. The pilot noted that he encountered a wind phenomena that was abrupt and without warning, and was unable to make any corrections. The right landing gear collapsed and the right lower wing was bent.