Boeing PT-13D N68830 accident near El Cajon, California

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll.

NTSB analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped biplane reported that he was performing a three-point landing. After an uneventful touchdown the airplane drifted to the right. The pilot attempted to compensate using left aileron and full-aft elevator control inputs. He applied partial engine power and the airplane then veered to left. The airplane continued off the left side of the runway, and ground-looped to the left. During the sequence, both lower wings struck the ground. The left lower wing and aileron received substantial damage.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation and stated that the accident was simply the result of a loss of control.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR26LA066 for the full record.