Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing. Contributing to the accident was the crosswind.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that while landing on runway 07 with the wind from 160 degrees at 5 knots gusting to 20 knots, he performed a wheel landing then lowered the tailwheel. As the tailwheel contacted the runway, the airplane yawed to the right and ground looped resulting in damage to the left wing, left aileron, and left horizontal stabilizer. The pilot did not report any mechanical failures or malfunctions to the airplane or any of its systems prior to the accident.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA09CA165 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 9, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Clemson, South Carolina
- Nearest airport
- Oconee County Regional Airport (CEU)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Helio H-295
- N-number
- N99PM
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
Other records under this N-number
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.