Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the landing roll.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that after takeoff in the tailwheel-equipped airplane the flight proceeded to the destination airport and the automated weather observing station (AWOS) indicated the wind was favoring runway 29. The flight continued and while on final approach to runway 29, the AWOS indicated the wind was from 360 degrees at 7 knots; no gusts were reported. The airplane landed on the main landing gear, and within seconds of lowering the tailwheel, the airplane suddenly veered to the right. The pilot applied right aileron, left rudder, and left brake to stop the turn but was unsuccessful. The airplane departed the runway and collided with a ditch. The spars of the lower left wing were damaged. Inspection of the airplane following recovery by a FAA certificated airframe and powerplant mechanic with inspection authorization (A&P/IA) revealed no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction of the tailwheel assembly.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA09CA350 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 14, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Stevensville, Maryland
- Nearest airport
- Bay Bridge Airport (W29)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Beech C17B
- N-number
- N47024
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.