Probable cause
The pilot's loss of directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a runway excursion and an impact with terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that he encountered terrain induced turbulence over the runway threshold and bounced on the touchdown. During the landing roll, the left wing rose and the airplane began a "sweeping turn to the left." He attempted to correct with right rudder and brake, but the airplane exited the runway to the left, traveled about 25 feet down an embankment, and came to a stop. The right 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 GAA16CA030 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Oct 23, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Placerville, California
- Nearest airport
- Placerville (PVF)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built PIETENPOL AIRCAMPER
- N-number
- N169JG
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2014
- 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.