Probable cause
The student pilot's improper landing flare and subsequent failure to maintain directional control during landing.
NTSB analysis
The solo student pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during final approach to land, he realized the airplane was too high, so he performed a forward slip. During touchdown, the airplane bounced twice and veered right. The airplane ground looped to the right, exited the runway, and the right main landing gear struck a guard rail.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing lift strut.
The student 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 GAA19CA089 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 30, 2018
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Forest, Virginia
- Nearest airport
- New London (W90)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper J4
- N-number
- N27838
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1940
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.