Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a ground loop, runway excursion, and subsequent landing gear collapse.
NTSB analysis
The private pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane was returning to his home airport after refueling at a nearby airport. The pilot reported there was moderate turbulence while on final approach to land. Shortly after touchdown, the pilot reported that the left wing lifted and that he “did not correct fast enough and then overcorrected.” The airplane ground looped, exited the runway, and the right main landing gear collapsed, resulting in the right wing and right elevator sustaining substantial damage. The pilot reported there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA24LA150 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 21, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Chesapeake, Virginia
- Nearest airport
- Hampton Roads Exec (PVG)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 170
- N-number
- N9269A
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1949
- 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.