Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during an attempted go-around from a landing.
NTSB analysis
While performing a series of touch-and-go landings, the pilot inadvertently allowed the tail wheel-equipped airplane to touch down with one wing lower than the other. Almost immediately after the airplane touched the surface, it suddenly veered toward the edge of the runway. The pilot added power in an attempt to execute a go-around, but before he could get the airplane airborne, it departed the runway surface and impacted the adjacent terrain.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR09CA351 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 15, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Laurel, Montana
- Nearest airport
- Laurel Municipal (6S8)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built KITFOX III
- N-number
- N4276M
- Category
- Airplane
- 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.