Aviation Accident Summaries

Aviation Accident Summary GAA19CA596

Reno, NV, USA

Aircraft #1

N515JD

Pitts S1

Analysis

The pilot reported that, during landing, the biplane encountered a right crosswind, veered right off the runway, and ground looped. The biplane sustained substantial damage to the lower left wing and rudder. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the biplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Factual Information

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped biplane reported that, during landing, the airplane encountered a right crosswind, veered to the right off the runway, and ground looped to the right. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the lower left wing and rudder. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The airport's automated weather observation station reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 150° at 4 knots. The pilot added that he believed he encountered a dust devil. The pilot was landing the airplane on runway 08.

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a runway excursion and a ground loop.

 

Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database

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