Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during the landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that while landing the tailwheel-equipped airplane in a quartering tailwind, the airplane started to veer left upon touchdown. He corrected with right rudder and brake which caused an overcorrection and he was unable to maintain directional control. During the accident sequence, the airplane ground looped and sustained substantial damage to the left wing. 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 WPR14CA380 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 19, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Portland, Oregon
- Nearest airport
- Portland-Hillsboro (HIO)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna 170B
- N-number
- N3210A
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1953
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
Other records under this N-number
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.