STEARMAN AIRCRAFT C3-B near Spokane, WA — 2011-07-16

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control on landing. Contributing to the accident was the touch down in a slide-slip.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that he was involved in a biplane fly-in that was going on at the time of the accident. According to a Federal Aviation Administration inspector, witnesses observed the airplane in a left side-slip during landing. The airplane subsequently touched down in the side-slip on the left wheel. The pilot applied full right rudder to compensate, then right brake to straighten out the airplane; however, the left landing gear strut collapsed, and the airplane entered into a slow speed ground loop, substantially damaging the lower wing. The pilot stated there were no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal flight.

NTSB coding

• Abnormal runway contact · Landing-flare/touchdown

Evidence available

• Photos
• 4 docket documents

Docket documents4

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Record of Conversation - FAAother
• Photo 1: Picture of damage to left main gear - Courtesy of FAAphotos
• Photo 2: Picture of fuselage attach point - Courtesy of FAAphotos

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