Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate compensation for the gusting crosswinds. Contributing to the accident was the flight instructor's failure to take timely remedial action.
NTSB analysis
During the planned termination of an instructional proficiency flight in his tailwheel-equipped airplane, the pilot attempted a full-stop landing in a nearly direct crosswind that was gusting to 15 knots. During the landing roll, the pilot failed to maintain directional control and the flight instructor providing dual instruction did not take action in time to remedy the situation. The airplane therefore veered sharply off the runway surface, and during the excursion sequence its right wing contacted the ground and sustained structural damage.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR09CA229 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 24, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Novato, California
- Nearest airport
- Gnoss Field (KDVO)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Siai-Marchetti SM 1019
- N-number
- N391RV
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.