Piper PA18 N4500W accident near Denver, Colorado

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during landing in gusting wind conditions.

NTSB analysis

The pilot under instruction in the tailwheel-equipped airplane with 26-inch bush wheels reported that, during the approach, he saw indications of a headwind. He added that, when the airplane touched down on the main wheels, he noticed that the windsock had shifted and was indicating a direct left crosswind. Just before the tailwheel touched down, the left wing lifted, and he slowly added power to abort the landing. However, the airplane veered left, the right main landing gear collapsed, and the right wing struck the ground. The airplane exited the left side of the runway.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and the elevator.

The airport's automated surface observing system reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 280° at 25 knots, gusting to 30 knots.

The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA19CA045 for the full record.