Probable cause
An inadequate flare which resulted in a bounced landing and the pilot's failure to maintain directional control.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of a tailwheel equipped airplane reported that, during the planned three-point landing, he flared too soon, the airplane bounced on touchdown and he corrected with the application of engine power. The airplane touched down a second time, initially on the right main landing gear. As the left main landing gear settled onto the runway, the airplane veered left, and despite the pilot's control inputs, continued to veer to the left and the right wing struck the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR20CA230 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 18, 2020
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Reno, Nevada
- Nearest airport
- Reno/Stead (RTS)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built XPA-18
- N-number
- N113MX
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2015
- 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.