Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the landing roll, which resulted in a runway excursion and collision with a ditch.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that she was conducting traffic pattern work following the completion of the airplane’s annual inspection. During landing, as the nose wheel touched down, the airplane veered abruptly to the left. She attempted to maintain directional control with the rudder pedals, but the airplane continued to the left, exited the runway and impacted a ditch, which resulted in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage.
A postaccident examination by an airframe and powerplant mechanic revealed no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA26LA128 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 12, 2026
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Knoxville, Tennessee
- Nearest airport
- Knoxville Downtown Island (DKX)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Beech C23
- N-number
- N1988L
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1976
- 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.