Amateur-built BEARHAWK N152GH accident near Williams, California

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 in the grass left of an asphalt runway with light wind conditions, the airplane veered left. He attempted to recover, but his flight control input was ineffective. The airplane ground looped to the left, the right landing gear collapsed, and the right wing impacted a ditch.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing.

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 GAA18CA555 for the full record.