American Champion Aircraft 7GCBC N234RA accident near Ontario, Oregon

Probable cause

The flight instructor's failure to maintain directional control during landing, in cross wind conditions.

NTSB analysis

The flight instructor reported that, during the last landing of the day, which he performed in crosswind conditions, the tailwheel-equipped airplane bounced. He added that during the bounce, the airplane rolled right, and the right main landing gear touched down. Subsequently, once both main landing gear were on the runway the airplane veered sharply to the right and he lost directional control. The airplane exited the right side of the runway, the right main landing gear spindle and tire separated from the airplane, and the airplane came to rest.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the front spar.

The flight instructor reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

The automated weather observation system located at the accident airport reported, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 210° at 8 knots. The flight instructor landed on runway 33.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA176 for the full record.