Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing flare.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that a light and variable wind existed during the landing approach. As the tailwheel-equipped airplane touched down, it pitched up, and the pilot lost directional control of the airplane. Despite the pilot's control inputs, the airplane departed the runway and impacted a fence and a rabbit hutch. Subsequently, both wings struck the ground, which resulted in structural damage to the wing spar, fuselage, and tail section. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR13CA173 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 1, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Brush Praire, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Brush Prairie (5WA9)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 150
- N-number
- N4342U
- 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.