Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a ground loop.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that during the landing roll in gusty wind conditions, a gust of wind lifted the left wing, the airplane ground looped to the right.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left aileron.
According to the pilot there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
A review of recorded data from the automated weather observation station located about 6 miles to the north, revealed that, at 1256 PDT, conditions were wind calm, visibility 10 statute miles, and sky clear.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA15CA302 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 20, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Grants Pass, Oregon
- Nearest airport
- Grants Pass (3S8)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Aviat Aircraft Inc A
- N-number
- N90ND
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2009
- 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.