Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, after flying a stable approach, the airplane ground looped to the right during the landing.
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.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA17CA348 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 18, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Palatka, Florida
- Nearest airport
- Palatka Muni - Lt Kay Larkin F (28J)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA 16
- N-number
- N5896H
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1949
- 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.