Amateur-built VANS RV8 N880KM accident near Roopville, Georgia

Probable cause

The pilot’s overcorrection with the right rudder during the landing roll, which resulted in a loss of directional control and a runway excursion.

NTSB analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that during the 3-point landing, the airplane drifted to the left and he applied right correction. He further reported that he "obviously over corrected" because the airplane went to the right and he was unable to correct with left rudder and brake. The airplane exited the runway and impacted trees.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and the fuselage.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

The pilot reported as a safety recommendation that he should have conducted a wheel landing to provide more directional control during the landing roll.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA085 for the full record.