Casualties unknown

Groundloop During Runway Exit Due to Wind Gusts (N9397N)

Boise, ID, US

On June 5, 1986, a Cessna 185 (registration N9397N) operated by Robert N. Rebholtz was involved in an aviation accident near Boise, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a ground maneuver in gusty wind conditions. 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 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced a groundloop while attempting to exit the runway after landing, prompted by air traffic control instructions to clear the pavement quickly for arriving traffic.

What happened

The aircraft was conducting a normal landing operation. During the rollout phase on the runway, the pilot received an instruction from the control tower to expedite clearing the active surface due to incoming landing traffic. The pilot had already reduced speed and initiated a turn toward the exit taxiway when the aircraft began to groundloop. This loss of directional control was precipitated by a gust of wind acting on the aircraft at that moment.

Findings

Meteorological data indicated that the wind was blowing from 070 degrees at 8 knots, with gusts reaching 12 knots. The combination of the pilot's maneuver to exit the runway and the crosswind component contributed to the incident.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a ground maneuver in gusty wind conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Jun 1986 Cessna 185 accident near Boise, ID?

A pilot experienced a groundloop while attempting to exit the runway after landing, prompted by air traffic control instructions to clear the pavement quickly for arriving traffic.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Jun 1986 involved a Cessna 185, registration N9397N, operated by Robert N. Rebholtz, at Boise, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a ground maneuver in gusty wind conditions.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X34021. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.