Probable cause
A loss of directional control as a result of a fractured landing gear attach bracket.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, while landing his tailwheel airplane on runway 15 with gusty winds from 250°, there was a slight bounce when he touched the runway with the right tire. As the left main tire touched down, he felt the left side of the airplane "drop suddenly." As the airplane continued down the runway, it began to veer to the left. He applied full right rudder and right brake, which kept the airplane on the runway for several hundred feet before directional control could no longer be maintained. The airplane exited the runway and nosed over which resulted in substantial damage to the right elevator.
A post-accident examination revealed a fractured left landing gear inboard attach bracket.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN20CA220 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 8, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Sulfer, Louisiana
- Nearest airport
- Southland Field (UXL)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built RV8
- N-number
- N44LA
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2007
- 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.