Pilot’s Failure To Maintain Directional Control Of The Airplane During Takeoff

Location: Big Bear City, California Accident Number: WPR23LA229
Date & Time: June 17, 2023, 14:30 Local Registration: N62TX
Aircraft: Cessna 305C (0-1E) Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of control on ground Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis: The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during takeoff, the airplane yawed left, exited the runway, and ground looped. During the ground loop, the airplane’s right wing impacted terrain, resulting in substantial damage.

Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that the tailwheel head bracket was broken in two places. Metallurgical examination of the fractured tailwheel head bracket revealed that the bracket flanges had separated due to overstress, likely because of the pilot’s loss of airplane control during takeoff and subsequent ground loop.

The wind at the airport about the time of the accident was reported to be calm.

Probable Cause and Findings: The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be -- The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control of the airplane during takeoff.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov