On 8 May 2016, an AIR TRACTOR INC AT 502 B operated by Kelly Sykora was involved in an aviation accident near Oberlin, KS. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll, which resulted in runway excursion, and a ground loop. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During landing roll, the tailwheel lifted, causing the airplane to veer right despite left rudder and brake input. It exited the runway and ground looped, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage and empennage.
Accident Overview
A tailwheel-equipped airplane experienced a ground loop during the landing roll, resulting in substantial damage. The pilot reported that as the airplane slowed down, the tailwheel lifted off the ground. Subsequently, the airplane veered to the right despite the application of left rudder and brake. It then exited the runway and ground looped.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation. The cause of the tailwheel lift-off was not specified in the report.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and empennage. No other injuries or damage were reported.
Contributing factors
PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained