Probable cause
The pilot's decision to taxi the tailwheel-equipped airplane over uneven terrain while operating with limited forward visibility, which resulted in the left main landing gear entering a hole.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he landed the tailwheel-equipped airplane in a grassy area between the paved runway and taxiway, which he stated is common practice at the airport. After touchdown, the airplane’s tailwheel settled to the surface, reducing the pilot’s forward visibility. The pilot continued straight ahead before initiating a left turn to a service road. Before reaching the service road, the left main landing gear entered a hole in the uneven terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the lower fuselage. The pilot's decision to continue taxiing with limited forward visibility over uneven terrain prevented him from detecting and avoiding the hole.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR26LA230 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 21, 2026
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Alva, Oklahoma
- Nearest airport
- Alva Regional (AVK)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built CHIPPER CH-2A
- N-number
- N618SA
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 2018
- 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.