North American T-6G N16JV accident near Colorado Springs, Colorado

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing.

NTSB analysis

During landing, the tailwheel equipped airplane drifted left of the runway centerline. The pilot applied right rudder and began transitioning the tail down when the airplane began a ground loop to the right. The airplane exited the runway, which resulted in separation of the left main landing gear and substantial damage to the left wing and aileron. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot noted that there were thunderstorms in the vicinity of the airport at the time of the accident. He added that a better understanding of wind shear may have assisted in preventing the loss of control.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN23LA235 for the full record.