Amateur-built SPORTSMAN GS-2 N237PM accident near Robbinsville, New Jersey

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll in gusting wind conditions.

NTSB analysis

The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during the landing roll, the airplane veered off the runway to the left. He added that he applied rudder inputs and full power to arrest the veer but was unsuccessful. The airplane continued to veer off the runway and impacted a tree.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and fuselage.

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

An automated weather observation located about 10 miles northwest of the airport reported that, about 7 minutes before the accident, the wind was from 280° at 14 knots, gusting to 21 knots. The airplane was landing on runway 29.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA182 for the full record.