Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff ground roll.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, during the takeoff ground roll, he slowly started to pull the control stick back for takeoff after the airplane attained 55-60 knots. The airplane subsequently veered left off the runway despite application of full right rudder. The airplane’s left wing struck sage brush, which caused the airplane to cartwheel and nose over. The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings, the vertical stabilizer, and the rudder. 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 WPR22LA156 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 17, 2022
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Richland, Washington
- Nearest airport
- Richland Airport (RLD)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built RV-6A
- N-number
- N341SS
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1998
- 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.