Casualties unknown

Pilot's Downwind Landing Attempt Results in Hard Landing and Ground Loop (N4101E)

Chandler, AZ, US

On November 17, 1986, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N4101E) operated by James D. Vaughan was involved in an aviation accident near Chandler, AZ. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During a local pleasure flight, a pilot attempted a downwind landing by following other traffic. The aircraft experienced wing lifting, corrections, a hard touchdown, and a ground loop, resulting in damage.

Incident Overview

At the conclusion of a local pleasure flight, the pilot of an aircraft attempted a downwind landing. The pilot had been following other traffic in the traffic pattern during this approach.

Sequence of Events

During the touchdown phase, the left wing of the aircraft lifted. In response, the pilot moved the control stick to the left to correct the wing lift. At that moment, the aircraft became airborne again, and the right wing lifted. The pilot then moved the control stick to the right to correct the right wing lift. Subsequently, the aircraft touched down hard on the main landing gear.

Outcome

As the pilot was attempting to apply the brakes, the aircraft ground looped and sustained damage.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X35196. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.