Casualties unknown

Aircraft Ground Loops on Landing; Tailwheel Found Misaligned (N5180N)

Bloomington, IL, US

On June 27, 1982, a Boeing E75 (registration N5180N) operated by David S. Finn was involved in an aviation accident near Bloomington, IL. 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

An aircraft ground looped 180 degrees after landing, striking taxi lights. Post-accident inspection revealed a misaligned tailwheel and low cable tension.

Landing and Ground Loop

According to the pilot, almost immediately after touchdown the aircraft began tracking to the left. During the attempt to correct the swerve, the aircraft ground looped 180 degrees to the right. As it rotated, the tail struck two taxi lights. The aircraft came to rest on the left side of the runway.

Previous Incidents

During prior flights, the pilot reported that the aircraft tracked slightly to the left on landings. He stated that he had barely stopped a ground loop to the left with hard rudder, power, and brakes.

Post-Accident Inspection

Following the accident, the tailwheel was found to angle approximately 10 degrees to the left when the rudder pedals were centered. Additionally, tailwheel cable tension was found to be below minimum pressure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Jun 1982 Boeing E75 accident near Bloomington, IL?

An aircraft ground looped 180 degrees after landing, striking taxi lights. Post-accident inspection revealed a misaligned tailwheel and low cable tension.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Jun 1982 involved a Boeing E75, registration N5180N, operated by David S. Finn, at Bloomington, IL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X02963. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.