Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate compensation for the tailwind conditions and failure to maintain directional control during landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that after returning to the airfield from a local flight, he elected to land on runway 36 and acknowledged the presence of a quartering tailwind on final approach. After touchdown, the airplane continued to the left, departed the runway, and collided with a ditch.
Examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the left and right wings respectively. The reported wind at the airport about the time of the accident was from 160 degrees at 7 knots, gusting to 14 knots. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA14CA201 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 12, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Blountstown, Florida
- Nearest airport
- Calhoun County Airport (F95)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Wsk Pzl Mielec M 18A
- N-number
- N2297L
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1987
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 137 (agricultural)
- Purpose of flight
- Aerial application
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.