Casualties unknown

Aircraft Flips Inverted on Landing After Directional Control Loss (N3166D)

Olathe, KS, US

On June 22, 1986, a Cessna 180 (registration N3166D) operated by Mark & Kevin J. Nugent was involved in an aviation accident near Olathe, 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

A witness reported a slow approach with a left wing drop before touchdown. The pilot inadvertently applied only one brake, causing loss of directional control. The aircraft veered right and flipped inverted after rolling 150-200 feet.

Incident Description

An aircraft experienced a loss of directional control during landing, resulting in a roll and inversion. According to the pilot, the aircraft touched down normally, but then veered to the right. It rolled no more than 150 to 200 feet before flipping inverted. Tire scuff marks were observed on the runway near the point where the aircraft came to rest inverted.

Witness Account

A witness stated that they observed the aircraft in a normal approach for landing, but it appeared to be slow. Just before touchdown, the witness saw the left wing drop. The witness also noted tire scuff marks on the runway near the location where the aircraft had flipped inverted.

Pilot Statement

The pilot in command (PIC) reported that they may have inadvertently applied only one brake at touchdown, which led to a loss of directional control. The pilot confirmed that there was no mechanical problem with the aircraft and that weather was not a contributing factor.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Jun 1986 Cessna 180 accident near Olathe, KS?

A witness reported a slow approach with a left wing drop before touchdown. The pilot inadvertently applied only one brake, causing loss of directional control. The aircraft veered right and flipped inverted after rolling 150-200 feet.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Jun 1986 involved a Cessna 180, registration N3166D, operated by Mark & Kevin J. Nugent, at Olathe, KS.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33976. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.