Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while landing in crosswind conditions.
NTSB analysis
The commercial pilot was landing the tailwheel-equipped airplane; it departed the left side of the runway during the landing roll and subsequently nosed over. A skid mark associated with the left main wheel was observed on the runway following the accident. A postaccident examination did not reveal any anomalies of the brake system. Left and right rudder/brake pedal travel was not restricted, and the brake system was intact and operational. Weather information indicated that there was a 20° right crosswind at 8 knots about the time of the accident. Given the absence of mechanical anomalies, it is likely that the pilot failed to maintain directional control during the landing roll.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN16LA202 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 29, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Carlsbad, New Mexico
- Nearest airport
- Cavern City Air Terminal (CNM)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built Pitts S1C
- N-number
- N95R
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1967
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
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.