Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing in gusting, quartering tailwind conditions.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, immediately after landing, the tailwheel-equipped airplane veered left and then right. Subsequently, he applied "heavy" brakes, and the airplane exited the right side of the runway and then nosed over.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right-wing lift strut.
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 located at the accident airport reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 280° at 10 knots, gusting to 19 knots. The pilot landed the airplane on runway 3.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA298 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 23, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- St. Johns, Arizona
- Nearest airport
- St Johns Industrial Air Park (SJN)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built BABY ACE D
- N-number
- N4207D
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1983
- 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.