Casualties unknown

Hard Landing and Ground Loop Precede Nose-Over During Touchdown (N4902A)

EL Monte, CA, US

On October 2, 1984, a Cessna 180 (registration N4902A) was involved in an aviation accident near EL Monte, CA. 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

A low-time private pilot flared the aircraft, resulting in a hard landing and bounce. On the second touchdown, a ground loop to the right occurred; brake and rudder application did not correct it, and the aircraft nosed over.

Accident Sequence

The pilot flared the aircraft, which resulted in a hard touchdown and subsequent bounce. During the second touchdown, the aircraft entered a ground loop to the right. Despite application of right brake and rudder, the pilot could not correct the situation. The left wing and nose then lowered, and the aircraft overturned onto its back.

Aircraft Information

The aircraft was equipped with conventional landing gear. No further details about the aircraft type or registration were provided in the source.

Pilot Information

The pilot, a private pilot, described himself as low-time. He reported that after obtaining his private pilot certificate on March 3, 1984, he had not flown until the day of the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Oct 1984 Cessna 180 accident near EL Monte, CA?

A low-time private pilot flared the aircraft, resulting in a hard landing and bounce. On the second touchdown, a ground loop to the right occurred; brake and rudder application did not correct it, and the aircraft nosed over.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Oct 1984 involved a Cessna 180, registration N4902A, at EL Monte, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X41409. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.