Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, while landing in crosswind conditions, the airplane ground looped to the right.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
The automated weather observation system at the accident airport reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 260° at 10 knots. The pilot landed on runway 24.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA268 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 5, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Fulton, New York
- Nearest airport
- Oswego County (FZY)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA 15
- N-number
- N4534H
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1948
- 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.