On June 15, 1986, a Bellanca KCAB (registration N8780) operated by Beth G. Howar was involved in an aviation accident near Taft, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a ground loop and right wing strike. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A Cessna Citabria bounced upon touchdown, leading to a ground loop and right wing strike on the runway shoulder. The pilot reported weather was not a factor.
What happened
The aircraft experienced a bounce during the landing phase. Upon initial touchdown, the pilot advanced the throttle in an attempt to maintain control or execute a go-around. During the subsequent second touchdown, the aircraft veered sharply to the left. This lateral movement caused the left wing to rise, shifting the aircraft's weight onto the right main landing gear while the right wing remained low.
As the aircraft continued its uncontrolled path, the right wing struck the ground on the runway shoulder. The pilot later indicated that weather conditions were not a contributing factor to the incident.
Findings
The sequence of events suggests that the initial bounce compromised directional control. The subsequent veering and asymmetric lift distribution led to the structural contact with the ground.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a ground loop and right wing strike.