Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in impact with a windsock pole.
NTSB analysis
The pilot in the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that he landed the airplane on the turf runway in variable wind conditions. During the landing roll, the airplane veered right and exited the right side of the runway. The airplane struck a runway cone and a windsock pole.
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
The weather reporting station at the nearest airport, about 24 miles from the accident site, reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 340° at 7 knots. The pilot landed the airplane on runway 36.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA19CA178 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 23, 2019
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Mecosta, Michigan
- Nearest airport
- Canadian Lakes (0C5)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA 12
- N-number
- N2733M
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1946
- 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.