Aeronca 11AC N9595E accident near Warroad, Minnesota

Probable cause

The pilot’s improper landing flare and his subsequent failure to maintain directional control during the landing in tailwind conditions.

NTSB analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during the landing, he flared high and bounced. The airplane touched down again, and a "gust of wind blew [him] off the runway." He attempted to recover by adding full power to go around; however, the airplane exited the runway to the left and came to rest inverted.

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

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

A review of current weather conditions at the accident airport revealed that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 150° at 9 knots. The airplane landed on runway 31.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA203 for the full record.