Probable cause
The pilot’s selection of an unsuitable off-airport landing area, which resulted in a ground loop.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during the landing at an off-airport dirt and grass landing area, the ground was very slippery. During the landing roll, the airplane struck a few holes and bumps, and the airplane rocked side to side. The airplane's left wing struck the ground and "pushed up," which caused the right wing to strike and catch the ground. The airplane ground looped to the right and came to rest in a nose-down attitude.
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.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA18CA567 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 21, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- St. Mary'S, Alaska
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA18
- N-number
- N8192D
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1957
- 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.