Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Left Wing Rise During Landing Rollout, Aircraft Strikes Trees (N1176D)

Sandusky, OH, US

On December 23, 1988, a Piper PA-18A (registration N1176D) operated by Lenardson, James R. was involved in an aviation accident near Sandusky, OH. 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

A pilot reported that after landing on runway 27, the left wing rose as groundspeed slowed to about 20 knots. Applying full power caused the aircraft to lift off, drift right, and strike small trees and shrubs before crashing.

Landing and Wing Rise

The pilot landed the aircraft on runway 27. He estimated the wind was from 240 degrees at 10 to 15 knots with gusts to 25 knots. During the landing roll, as the groundspeed slowed to approximately 20 knots, the left wing began to rise.

Go-Around and Collision

In response, the pilot applied full power. The aircraft lifted off the ground but then drifted to the right, striking small trees and shrubs before crashing.

Possible Control Input

The pilot indicated that his left knee may have moved the control stick to the right, centering the stick, as he reached for the flap handle during the rollout.

Wind Information

Approximately 35 miles east, at Cleveland, the wind at 1451 EST was reported from 250 degrees at 18 knots, gusting to 26 knots.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X27385. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.