N396JD

Substantial
None

Dickson Vans Aircraft RV-8S/N: 81923

Accident Details

Date
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
NTSB Number
WPR09CA095
Location
El Monte, CA
Event ID
20090121X54954
Coordinates
34.085834, -118.034721
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
2
Total Aboard
2

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
DICKSON VANS AIRCRAFT
Serial Number
81923
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
2005
Model / ICAO
RV-8
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
2
FAA Model
RV-8

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
HUDIK RYAN
Address
900 PIPER CIR
City
WESTCLIFFE
State / Zip Code
CO 81252-9064
Country
United States

Analysis

In a written statement, the pilot reported that following eight full-stop practice takeoffs and landings he departed from his home airport. The approach to the destination airport was uneventful and the wind condition was calm. The airplane touched down and a small bounce ensued. As the tail began to lower, the pilot applied brakes in an attempt to slow the airplane. The tail began to swing to the right (pointing the airplane's nose to the left) and the pilot tried to correct the offset by adding right rudder. The airplane began to skid sideways, breaking off the right main landing gear; the airplane came to rest off the left side of the runway. The right wing sustained damage during the impact sequence.

The pilot spoke with a National Transportation Safety investigator immediately following the accident. He stated that there were no pre impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine. In the section titled "RECOMMENDATION" in the NTSB Pilot/Operator Report, form 6120.1/2, the pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented if he had added more right rudder application to maintain runway centerline. He additionally stated that more training and tailwheel experience would have helped prevent the accident.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# WPR09CA095