N515JD

Substantial
None

Pitts S1S/N: RB2016

Accident Details

Date
Wednesday, September 11, 2019
NTSB Number
GAA19CA596
Location
Reno, NV
Event ID
20191127X60120
Coordinates
39.668056, -119.876388
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a runway excursion and a ground loop. 

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
PITTS
Serial Number
RB2016
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
2016
Model / ICAO
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
1
FAA Model
PITTS S1S

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
DALESSANDRIS JOHN A
Address
5995 ALPHA AVE
City
RENO
State / Zip Code
NV 89506-1291
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped biplane reported that, during landing, the airplane encountered a right crosswind, veered to the right off the runway, and ground looped to the right.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the lower left wing and rudder.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

The airport's automated weather observation station reported that, about the time of the accident, the wind was from 150° at 4 knots. The pilot added that he believed he encountered a dust devil. The pilot was landing the airplane on runway 08.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA19CA596