Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that during the landing roll in the tailwheel equipped airplane, as the rudder lost effectiveness, the airplane veered to the right and then ground looped off of the runway. Subsequently, the left wing struck the ground, which resulted in substantial damage.
The pilot reported that he thought he may have inadvertently applied minor application of the right brake due to his foot placement.
The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR14CA103 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 25, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Renton, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Renton Muni (RNT)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Waco Classic Aircraft YMF F5C
- N-number
- N188L
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2013
- 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.