Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain yaw control and the exceedance of the airplane’s critical angle of attack in the traffic pattern, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall/spin.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during the right downwind in the traffic pattern, he was about 1/4 mile from the runway, which was "too close." He added that, "during a poorly planned and executed base to final approach," he performed an "uncoordinated" right bank about 45°, and the right wing dropped, which resulted in a descending right roll. He attempted to recover, but the airplane impacted terrain.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and right wing.
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 GAA18CA061 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 23, 2017
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Caldwell, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Private (PVT)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Dusk
Luscombe 8
- N-number
- N1780K
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1946
- 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.