On 3 Oct 2008, a PIPER J3C-65 operated by John William Vanderhage was involved in an aviation accident near Lynden, WA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The separation of the tailwheel spring retaining clip for unknown reasons, which resulted in the loss of directional control during the landing roll. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During the landing roll, a tailwheel-equipped airplane suddenly veered to the right, exited the runway, and impacted a hangar. Examination revealed a separated tailwheel spring retaining clip and structural damage.
Accident Details
According to the pilot's statement, the incident occurred while the airplane was in the landing roll phase. The airplane experienced a sudden veer to the right, which persisted despite the pilot's attempts to correct with control inputs. As a result, the airplane departed the runway and impacted a hangar located adjacent to the runway.
Examination Findings
After the accident, an examination of the airplane was conducted. This examination found that the fuselage and both wings had sustained structural damage. Additionally, the tailwheel spring retaining clip was discovered to be separated from the tailwheel assembly. No abnormalities were noted in the flight control system.
Contributing factors
Attain/maintain not possibleNose/tail landing gear — Failure