GAA18CA310

Factual narrative

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, while taxiing from the runway in crosswind conditions, he "failed to maintain directional control". Subsequently, the airplane ground looped counterclockwise. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and elevator. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The automated weather observation system at the accident airport reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 230° at 4 knots. The pilot landed on runway 29. The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, while taxiing from the runway in crosswind conditions, he "failed to maintain directional control." Subsequently, the airplane ground looped counterclockwise. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and elevator. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The automated weather observation system at the airport reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 230° at 4 knots. The pilot landed on runway 29. Source: NTSB Aviation Accident Database Retrieved: 2026-02-12

NTSB Findings

FAA avdata. C = Cause, F = Factor.

• C Aircraft-Aircraft oper/perf/capability-Performance/control parameters-Directional control-Not attained/maintained - C
• C Personnel issues-Task performance-Use of equip/info-Aircraft control-Pilot - C
• — Environmental issues-Conditions/weather/phenomena-Wind-Crosswind-Effect on operation