Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during the takeoff roll, as the airplane crested a hill about a third of the way down the grass runway, the airplane was close to the right edge of the runway. He added that he could not clearly distinguish the runway edges and applied left rudder, but in doing so, the airplane departed the runway surface to the left and nosed over in rough muddy terrain.
The left wing sustained substantial damage.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA234 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 9, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Stafford, Kansas
- Nearest airport
- Stafford Muni (3TA)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Bellanca 8KCAB
- N-number
- N55067
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1978
- 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.