Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in a runway excursion, and a nose over.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that during the landing roll in crosswind conditions the airplane veered off the runway to the left. The pilot further reported that in order to avoid hitting a drainage ditch he "braked too hard" and subsequently the airplane nosed over.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the firewall.
According to the pilot there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA16CA274 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 31, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Zanesville, Ohio
- Nearest airport
- Parr (42I)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built CYGNET
- N-number
- N81DK
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1981
- 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.