Probable cause
The pilot's improper application of left brake pedal during the landing roll, which resulted in a loss of directional control and a ground loop.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that after an uneventful landing, as the airplane was decelerating, he intended to turn off the runway onto the left taxiway. While using the brakes to slow the airplane he applied hard left pedal and the airplane ground looped to the left. The right main landing gear collapsed, and the right wing struck the pavement, which resulted in substantial damage to the right wing.
The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR26LA044 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 12, 2025
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Fresno, California
- Nearest airport
- Fresno Yosemite Intl (FAT)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Luscombe 8A
- N-number
- N1264K
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1946
- 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.