On 18 Jun 2017, a PIPER PA 16 NO SERIES was involved in an aviation accident near Palatka, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot failed to maintain directional control during the landing phase. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A tailwheel aircraft experienced a ground loop during the landing roll in Palatka, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe.
What happened
On June 18, 2017, a Piper PA 16, registration N5896H, was performing a landing in Palatka, Florida. The pilot reported that the aircraft had completed a stable approach; however, during the landing roll, the tailwheel-equipped airplane ground looped to the right.
The accident resulted in no injuries to the pilot. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and the right wing.
The investigation
The pilot stated that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions occurring prior to the accident that would have prevented the aircraft from operating normally.
Probable cause
The pilot failed to maintain directional control during the landing phase.
Contributing factors
Directional control — Not attained/maintainedPilot