Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the biplane during takeoff.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during the takeoff as the tailwheel lifted, the biplane veered "hard right" and exited the runway. He added that he "felt" he had enough speed to fly and attempted to lift off. Subsequently, the biplane struck a tree.
The biplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and both wings.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the biplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA144 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 18, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Borger, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Hutchinson County (BGD)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
S 1C
- N-number
- N591P
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1967
- 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.