Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control while landing with gusting wind conditions, which resulted in a ground loop.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that, while landing on runway 4, a gust of wind caused the airplane to veer left. The pilot used rudder control and added power to no avail. The airplane ground looped to the right and the left landing gear collapsed. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings and the left horizontal stabilizer. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.
The pilot reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 350° at 8 knots
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR21LA181 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 2, 2021
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Driggs, Idaho
- Nearest airport
- Driggs-Reed Meml (DIJ)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Cessna A185F
- N-number
- N9BB
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1977
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
Other records under this N-number
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.