The biplane pilot reported that, during the landing roll at the airport in Gila Bend, Arizona, the Stearman PT17 veered right, departed the runway, and the left-wing tip hit a ditch.
The biplane sustained substantial damage to the left, lower wing spar.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a runway excursion and impact with a ditch.
Zero wind and went off the runway into the sand. This pilot added to accident report: “pay more attention on landing and get more dual instruction.”
This April 2019 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
