Pilot Debrief

PIPER J3C near Yakima, WA — 2017-10-03

Final reportGAA18CA001
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Date
2017-10-03
Location
Yakima, WA, USA
Airport
YKM
Aircraft
PIPER J3C
Registration
N48694
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The flight instructor's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll.

NTSB narrative

The flight instructor of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that the purpose of the flight was to demonstrate a short-field takeoff to an observing student. During the takeoff roll, about rotation speed, the left wing unexpectedly dropped and impacted the ground. Subsequently, the airplane ground looped and sustained substantial damage to both wings and the empennage. The flight instructor reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions 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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