Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during landing with a crosswind.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during the landing roll with a right crosswind, he felt the right-wing lift, causing the airplane to veer to the left. He attempted to correct with right rudder; however, the airplane ground looped and came to rest in a nosed down position. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right aileron. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR23LA280 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 21, 2023
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Kalispell, Montana
- Nearest airport
- Glacier Park International Air (GPI)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-12S
- N-number
- N48MR
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1947
- 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.