On 27 Sep 2019, a Piper PA 22 150 was involved in an aviation accident near Pollock, LA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper landing flare, which resulted in a bounced landing and subsequent ground loop. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 12 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A tailwheel airplane bounced on landing, then ground looped after a misaligned second touchdown, exiting the runway and hitting a drainage ditch, resulting in substantial right wing damage.
Overview
A pilot operating a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported a bounced landing. During the subsequent touchdown, the aircraft was not aligned with the runway, leading to a ground loop. The airplane departed the left side of the runway and struck a drainage ditch.
Damage
The accident caused substantial damage to the right wing. The pilot noted no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have prevented normal operation.
Pilot Account
According to the pilot, the airplane bounced during the initial landing attempt. On the second touchdown, the airplane was not aligned with the runway centerline, and it immediately ground looped. The airplane then exited the runway to the left and collided with a drainage ditch.
Contributing factors
Directional control — Not attained/maintainedLanding flare — Not attained/maintainedPilotEffect on operation