N61TW Weiss Theodore T RV-8 accident

NTSB ERA23LA168 · 2023-01-08 · Ridgeland, SC · near 3J1

Docket — crew, injuries and powerplant

Factual narrative

According to the pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane, he planned to perform a touch-and-go landing, and proceeded with a “wheel landing.” During rollout, with both main wheels on the runway, “an unpredictable and unknown force” caused the airplane to depart the right side of the runway. The airplane continued toward runway signage, and the pilot applied engine power to avoid it, which resulted in the airplane’s “ground loop to the right.” The airplane’s right wing and propeller struck the ground which resulted in substantial damage to the wing and fuselage. Weather reported 14 miles south of the accident site at the time of the accident included clear skies and calm winds. The pilot reported there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll. The National Transportation Safety Board determined the probable cause of this accident.

Circumstances

Event type

Accident

Highest injury

None

Weather conditions

Visual Meteorological Cond

Light condition

Day

Sky condition

NONE

Ceiling (ft)

0

Visibility (sm)

10

Wind direction

0

Temperature (F)

64

Nearest airport

Ridgeland - Claude Dean

Distance from field

1.0

Airport elevation

85

Aircraft

Sequence of events

Findings