Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll in tailwind conditions.
NTSB analysis
The student pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during landing, the airplane ground looped, and the right main landing gear collapsed. He added that he believes he became complacent during the flight.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage.
The student pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
A review of recorded data from the automated weather observation station located on the airport reported that, about 27 minutes before the accident, the wind was from 070° at 8 knots. The airplane landed on runway 31L.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA181 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 10, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Hillsboro, Oregon
- Nearest airport
- Portland-Hillsboro (HIO)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA22
- N-number
- N50KF
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1956
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.