Pilot Debrief

GRIFFITHS JAMES SYDNEY Kokopelli SuperPacer near Kremmling, CO — 2012-06-10

Final reportCEN12LA350
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Date
2012-06-10
Location
Kremmling, CO, USA
Airport
K20V
Aircraft
GRIFFITHS JAMES SYDNEY Kokopelli SuperPacer
Registration
N8VX
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0
Phase of flight
Landing

Probable cause

The low spring tension of the rudder and tailwheel cable, which resulted in the loss of control as the airplane decelerated after landing.

NTSB narrative

The tailwheel-equipped airplane touched down in a 3-point attitude and aligned with the runway. As it slowed, it began drifting to the right. The flight instructor applied full left rudder and full left brake to no avail. The airplane went off the side of the runway, bounced, and ground looped to the right. The flight instructor stated that the spring tension was set too low on the rudder and tailwheel cable.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Loss of control
First missed decision gate
Instructor could have opted for a go-around earlier to avoid loss of control.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents6

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