Probable cause
The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a loss of directional control, runway excursion and impact with terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot in the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that, during the landing, the airplane bounced, and he was unable to maintain directional control. The airplane departed the runway and impacted a berm. The right wing impacted the ground and was substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR21LA137 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 17, 2021
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Three Forks, Montana
- Nearest airport
- Three Forks (9S5)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-18-150
- N-number
- N82479
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1977
- 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.