Probable cause
The pilot receiving instruction’s failure to maintain directional control during landing.
NTSB analysis
The flight instructor, who was providing tailwheel instruction, reported that, after several dual landings, he exited the airplane to allow the pilot receiving instruction to conduct a solo flight. The flight instructor further reported that, during the pilot's third solo landing, he observed the pilot make a wheel landing. During the landing, the airplane exited the runway to the left and impacted a hangar.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage.
The flight instructor 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 GAA17CA506 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 9, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Camas, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Grove Field (1W1)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper J3C
- N-number
- N6048H
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1946
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
Other records under this N-number
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.