On 15 May 2017, a WEAVER STANLEY R/ROBINSON SCOT VANS RV-8 was involved in an aviation accident near Vacaville, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control while landing in crosswind conditions. This summary draws on records from NTSB.
A tailwheel-equipped airplane veered right after landing in a crosswind, exited the runway, and struck a 20-foot-deep drainage ditch, sustaining substantial fuselage damage.
Accident Overview
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, while landing in a crosswind, the airplane veered to the right as the tailwheel set down. Despite applying left rudder input, the airplane exited the right side of the runway and struck a drainage ditch measuring 20 feet in depth. The accident aircraft sustained substantial damage to its fuselage.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Weather Conditions
The automated weather observation system at the airport reported that, around the time of the accident, the wind was from 240° at 15 knots. The pilot landed on runway 20.
Contributing factors
Causes
Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot