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Tailwheel Airplane Veers Off Runway During Landing, Impacts Berm (N71780)

Benson, AZ, US

On August 2, 2005, a Luscombe 8A (registration N71780) was involved in an aviation accident near Benson, AZ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the non-certificated pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane with a tailwheel configuration veered left during the landing roll, departed the runway, and struck a dirt mound with its right main landing gear, coming to rest on its right wing.

Accident Details

During the landing roll, a tailwheel-equipped airplane began to swerve to the left of the runway centerline. The pilot, who is also the owner of the airplane, reported that the swerving continued, and the airplane subsequently departed the runway surface. After leaving the runway, the airplane’s right main landing gear collided with a dirt mound, causing the airplane to come to rest on its right wing.

Pilot Statement

The owner and pilot does not hold any Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certificates, including a student pilot certificate. He stated that during the landing roll, the tailwheel-equipped airplane began to swerve to the left of the runway centerline. The pilot reported no pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Aug 2005 Luscombe 8A accident near Benson, AZ?

An airplane with a tailwheel configuration veered left during the landing roll, departed the runway, and struck a dirt mound with its right main landing gear, coming to rest on its right wing.

Were there any fatalities in the 2 Aug 2005 Luscombe 8A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Aug 2005 involved a Luscombe 8A, registration N71780, at Benson, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the non-certificated pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050906X01393. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.