PIPER PA-12 near White Sulphur Springs, MT — 2010-08-02

Probable cause

The pilot’s loss of directional control while attempting to avoid a herd of antelope crossing the runway during the landing rollout.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that after a local area flight in a tailwheel-equipped airplane, the approach and landing was uneventful. As the airplane touched down, a herd of antelope entered the left side of the runway and crossed in front of the airplane. The pilot attempted to swerve to the right to avoid the animals and the airplane ground-looped, substantially damaging the airplane’s left wing. The pilot reported no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine 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

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