Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which resulted in a runway excursion and a ground loop.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during takeoff he "lost rudder control" and the airplane exited the runway to the left. During the runway excursion, the airplane ground looped, the left main landing gear collapsed, and the left wing impacted terrain. The left wing sustained substantial damage.
The pilot stated there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA15CA260 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 11, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Santa Rosa, New Mexico
- Nearest airport
- Santa Rosa Route 66 (SXU)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built JA30 SUPERSTOL
- N-number
- N508RM
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2015
- 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.