Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during the landing roll, the right wing suddenly raised. He applied aileron and rudder corrections; however, the left wing impacted the ground as the airplane ground looped.
The left wing was substantially damaged.
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 GAA17CA374 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 26, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Watertown, South Dakota
- Nearest airport
- Watertown Rgnl (ATY)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Champion 7BCM
- N-number
- N3195C
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1947
- 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.