Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during taxiing in crosswind conditions, which resulted in the airplane nosing over.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, he had completed touch-and-go landings and had planned to make a full-stop taxi back to the departure end of the runway. While taxiing, the left wing was lifted by a gust of wind and the right wing contacted the ground. The pilot closed the throttle, applied full left rudder, full back pressure on the elevator and tapped the brakes. Despite his actions, the propeller struck the ground and the airplane nosed over. Both wing struts were 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 WPR21LA159 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 15, 2021
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Pullman, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Pullman-Moscow Regional Airpor (PUW)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA22
- N-number
- N3023M
- 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.