What happened
On May 17, 2011, a Cessna A185F operated by Rust Air Inc was performing stop-and-go takeoff and landing practice near Talkeetna, Alaska. The flight included a commercial pilot and the company's chief pilot.
During the initial landing, the pilot reported that as the tailwheel made contact with the runway, the aircraft veered sharply to the right. Despite the application of left rudder, the aircraft exited the right side of the runway. As the aircraft left the paved surface, the pilot transferred control to the chief pilot seated in the right seat. During the excursion, the right wing lifted while the left wing struck the ground, causing structural damage to the left wing. There were no injuries resulting from the event.
The investigation
Investigators examined the tailwheel assembly of N125KT and found no mechanical anomalies.