Amateur-built RV8 N68TP accident near Metaline Falls, Washington

Probable cause

The pilot’s loss of directional control during landing due to impact with a concrete ring embedded in the grass runway.

NTSB analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel equipped airplane reported that during the landing rollout, after the tail came down, he felt and heard a “bang” as the airplane rolled over a concrete ring, embedded in the turf runway. The airplane continued down the runway and the right main landing gear tire dug into the ground, followed by the collapse of the right main landing gear. The fuselage sustained substantial damage. After exiting the airplane, the pilot noticed that the tailwheel steering link was broken. 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 WPR23LA273 for the full record.