Probable cause
The pilot's loss of directional control during the takeoff roll and the flight instructor's inability to apply remedial action due to the opposite corrective control inputs by the pilot.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was attempting to take off on an instructional flight when the tailwheel-equipped airplane veered and ground looped toward the right before it nosed over. The pilot stated that he did not apply left rudder soon enough to avoid the loss of directional control. The flight instructor stated that he attempted to apply corrective control input, but the pilot was applying opposite control input and did not reduce engine power as he was instructed.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN11LA642 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 11, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Muskegan, Michigan
- Nearest airport
- Muskegon County Airport (MKG)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Instrument (IMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA16
- N-number
- N5383H
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.