N3446

Substantial
None

BENJAMIN HAROLD E RV-4S/N: 3446

Accident Details

Date
Saturday, June 25, 2016
NTSB Number
GAA16CA344
Location
Fitchburg, MA
Event ID
20160629X64057
Coordinates
42.553890, -71.759162
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 upon landing, which resulted in a runway excursion followed by impact with terrain.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
BENJAMIN HAROLD E
Serial Number
3446
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
2012
Model / ICAO
RV-4
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
2
FAA Model
RV-4

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
BENJAMIN HAROLD E
Address
115 W 86TH ST APT 63
City
NEW YORK
State / Zip Code
NY 10024-3410
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that he made a normal three-point landing, shortly after touchdown the airplane veered to the left, then veered to the right. The pilot further reported that he applied power in an attempt to regain control, however the airplane veered back to the left and he reduced power as the airplane departed the runway. The airplane ground looped and the right wing impacted terrain causing substantial damage to the right aileron.

The pilot reported there were no preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA16CA344