Probable cause
The failure of the pilot receiving instruction to maintain directional control during the landing roll, resulting in a ground-loop.
NTSB analysis
The flight instructor reported that during the landing roll the airplane veered left. The pilot receiving instruction applied a "sharp application" to the right brake. The flight instructor further reported that he directed the pilot receiving instruction "off the brakes", a total of three times. As a result of the right brake application, the airplane ground looped to the right, the left main landing gear collapsed, and the left wing impacted the ground, which resulted in substantial damage to the left wing.
The flight instructor reported that 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 GAA16CA112 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 24, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Auburn, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Auburn Muni (S50)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA 18A 150
- N-number
- N9295D
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1958
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.