Probable cause
The pilot's improper landing flare and subsequent loss of directional control during landing.
NTSB analysis
The solo student pilot was conducting touch-and-go landings. He reported that during the landing flare, the airplane ballooned, and he was unable to maintain directional control. The airplane touched down and subsequently exited the runway, impacted a drainage ditch, and nosed over, which resulted in substantial damage to the left wing and rudder.
The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR26LA201 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 25, 2026
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Cowley, Wyoming
- Nearest airport
- North Big Horn County Airport (U68)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
American Aviation AA1
- N-number
- N6440L
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1972
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.