McCurdy Pro Star PT-2 near Springfield, IL — 2009-03-16

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll.

NTSB narrative

The accident occurred during the first flight since the tailwheel-equipped airplane had been rebuilt. The pilot reported that runway 31 was the active runway and the local winds were calm to light-and-variable. After departure, the pilot was cleared for a full-stop landing on runway 31. While the airplane was on final approach, the local air traffic controller stated the wind was 150 degrees magnetic at 5 knots. The pilot performed a three-point landing on the runway centerline, touching down at approximately 40 mph. He reported that the tailwheel bounced after touchdown, after which the airplane immediately began veering to the right. He was unable to correct for the right swerve using a combination of rudder and brake inputs. He ultimately applied full right brake pressure in an attempt to ground loop the airplane on the hard runway surface. During the ground loop the left main landing gear encountered soft terrain off the right side of the runway, and the left wing tip then impacted the ground. The left wing was substantially damaged. Examination of the flight controls, brake system, and tailwheel assembly revealed no anomalies that could be associated with a preimpact failure or malfunction.

NTSB coding

• Loss of control on ground · Landing-landing roll

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