Probable cause
The pilot’s loss of directional control during landing with a quartering tailwind.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, prior to commencing his approach to land the reported wind at the airport was variable at 5kts. During landing the tail of the airplane rose and shifted to the left at touchdown. The pilot attempted to recover, but the airplane ground looped, resulting in substantial damage to the left and right ailerons. Upon exiting the aircraft, the pilot observed the windsock indicating a quartering tailwind. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR23LA190 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 12, 2023
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Elko, Nevada
- Nearest airport
- Elko Regional (EKO)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Aviat Aircraft Inc A-1C-180
- N-number
- N12HD
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2022
- 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.