Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that about 700 feet into a landing roll, the left wing came up suddenly, and the airplane turned left. The airplane departed the runway to the left, flipped over, and subsequently sustained substantial damage to the left wing, right wing, and the empennage. The pilot stated he believes a left crosswind gust was present during the landing roll which resulted in a ground loop.
The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA15CA045 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 18, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Newport, Rhode Island
- Nearest airport
- Newport State (UUU)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Flight Design Gmbh CTSW
- N-number
- N684CT
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2007
- 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.