STINSON 108-1 near Townsend, MT — 2010-06-14

Probable cause

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

NTSB narrative

Earlier in the day the pilot had discovered a minor engine oil leak in his airplane. The leak was fixed by a certificated airframe and power plant mechanic and the pilot then changed the airplane's oil. The pilot stated that the purpose of the flight was to make sure that the oil leak was repaired. He flew one circuit in the traffic pattern and landed normally. The pilot reported that he had full control of the airplane until he applied the brakes. According to the pilot, he "applied [the brakes] a little too soon," and the airplane veered to the right and exited the runway. In the grass on the side of the runway, the airplane momentarily nosed down and the propeller touched the ground. The airplane then settled back down normally with the engine stopped. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing and main wing spar. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunction or failure with the airplane prior to the accident.

NTSB coding

• Loss of control on ground · Landing-landing roll

Evidence available

• 1 docket document

Docket documents1

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form

Related mishaps

• CESSNA A185F

  2026-06-27 · Angel Fire, NM

• CESSNA 180H

  2026-06-21 · Port Angeles, WA

• CESSNA 140

  2026-06-01 · Pasco, WA

• EAA Acro Sport II

  2026-05-31 · Sheridan, AR

• PITTS SPECIAL S-1S

  2026-05-29 · Bartlesville, OK

• GULFSTREAM AEROSPACE CORP GVII-G600

  2026-05-27 · Birmingham, AL