Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll with a tailwind.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during the landing roll, the airplane ground looped to the left.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings and lift struts.
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 station located about 5 miles north of the accident airport reported that, about 7 minutes before the accident, the wind was from 220° at 7 knots. The airplane landed on runway 36.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA303 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 27, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Kenai, Alaska
- Nearest airport
- Kalifonsky Meadows (0AA7)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA18
- N-number
- N4018E
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1977
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
Other records under this N-number
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.