Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a ground loop.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during the landing roll with a "considerable" left cross wind, the left wing "rose." He reported that the airplane veered to the left, and ground looped. The right main landing gear collapsed and the right wing impacted the runway. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing.
The pilot reported there were 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 GAA15CA264 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 18, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Rock Springs, Wyoming
- Nearest airport
- Rock Springs-Sweetwater County (RKS)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Aviat A1
- N-number
- N288MD
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2001
- 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.