Pilot Debrief

STEPHEN ABERLE CHIPPER CH-2A near Alva, OK — 2026-06-21

Final reportWPR26LA230
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Date
2026-06-21
Location
Alva, OK, USA
Airport
AVK
Aircraft
STEPHEN ABERLE CHIPPER CH-2A
Registration
N618SA
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to taxi the tailwheel-equipped airplane over uneven terrain while operating with limited forward visibility, which resulted in the left main landing gear entering a hole.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he landed the tailwheel-equipped airplane in a grassy area between the paved runway and taxiway, which he stated is common practice at the airport. After touchdown, the airplane’s tailwheel settled to the surface, reducing the pilot’s forward visibility. The pilot continued straight ahead before initiating a left turn to a service road. Before reaching the service road, the left main landing gear entered a hole in the uneven terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the lower fuselage. The pilot's decision to continue taxiing with limited forward visibility over uneven terrain prevented him from detecting and avoiding the hole. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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