Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll.
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 the right wing and right elevator.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA530 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 29, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Edgewood, New Mexico
- Nearest airport
- Sandia Airpark Estates East (1N1)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA 12
- N-number
- N4159M
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1947
- 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.