Casualties unknown

Pilot Experiences Leg Cramp During Crosswind Landing, Leading to Ground Loop (N2497K)

Goodland, KS, US

On May 25, 1982, a Luscombe 8E (registration N2497K) operated by Glenn E. Trewet was involved in an aviation accident near Goodland, KS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

While landing at Goodland, Kansas, a pilot experienced a leg cramp and inadvertently hit the left rudder with his right foot, causing a ground loop. The right main gear collapsed, and the right wing and horizontal stabilizer were damaged.

Incident Overview

During an en route flight, the pilot encountered headwinds and decided to land at Goodland, Kansas to refuel. The landing was conducted on Runway 12 with a crosswind from 320 degrees at 6 knots.

Sequence of Events

After touchdown, the pilot experienced a cramp in his right leg. To alleviate the cramp, he removed his right foot from the rudder pedal. Subsequently, the aircraft began to turn left. The pilot then inadvertently applied the left rudder pedal on the passenger side with his right foot. He reported that the mistake was quickly recognized, but not in time to prevent a ground loop.

Aircraft Damage

As a result of the ground loop, the right main gear collapsed, and the right wing and horizontal stabilizer sustained damage.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that the leg cramp and subsequent inadvertent rudder input led to the loss of directional control.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 May 1982 Luscombe 8E accident near Goodland, KS?

While landing at Goodland, Kansas, a pilot experienced a leg cramp and inadvertently hit the left rudder with his right foot, causing a ground loop. The right main gear collapsed, and the right wing and horizontal stabilizer were damaged.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 May 1982 involved a Luscombe 8E, registration N2497K, operated by Glenn E. Trewet, at Goodland, KS.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03808. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.