Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll with a crosswind.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, while conducting a wheel landing on a grass runway with a direct crosswind, as the tailwheel settled onto the ground, the airplane veered right. He attempted to correct by applying left brake. Subsequently, the airplane ground looped to the right, substantially damaging the left wing and elevator when they impacted the ground. The pilot reported that there were no pre accident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR21LA163 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 18, 2021
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Wilsall, Montana
- Nearest airport
- Wilsall (9U1)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-18-150
- N-number
- N83359
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1976
- 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.