Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control while landing in gusting wind conditions, which resulted in a ground loop.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during landing, she experienced a wind gust and the airplane veered to the left and ground looped. The wings and lift struts were substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR21LA167 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 27, 2021
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Petaluma, California
- Nearest airport
- Petaluma Muni (O69)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
American Legend Aircraft Co AL3
- N-number
- N712YP
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2010
- 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.