Probable cause
The pilot’s improper landing flare and subsequent failure to adequately compensate for gusting wind conditions during a go-around.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the tundra-tire-equipped, tailwheel airplane reported that the airplane landed hard and "bounced pretty good." He applied power to go around, but during the crosswind turn, a downdraft pushed the airplane to the ground. Subsequently, the airplane impacted trees.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, empennage, and both wings.
After multiple requests, the pilot did not return the National Transportation Safety Board Form 6120.1 Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report.
A review of recorded data from the automated weather observation station located on the airport reported that, about 15 minutes before the accident, the wind was from 170° at 7 knots, gusting to 16 knots. It is unknown which direction the airplane was landing.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA240 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 21, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Wenatchee, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Pangborn Memorial (EAT)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built GLASTAR
- N-number
- N661RP
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2006
- 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.