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Tailwheel Shimmy Leads to Ground Loop and Wing Damage (N2705K)

Englewood, CO, US

On September 2, 1989, a Cessna 180K (registration N2705K) operated by James M. Leake was involved in an aviation accident near Englewood, CO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL, WHICH RESULTED IN A GROUND SWERVE. THE CROSSWIND WAS A RELATED FACTOR. 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

During a touch-and-go landing on Runway 17R, a commercial pilot experienced a tailwheel shimmy. After momentarily correcting it by relaxing back pressure, reapplying back pressure caused loss of directional control, resulting in a ground loop and damage to the left wing, stabilizer, and elevator.

Incident Details

A commercial pilot and a passenger were conducting a local flight. The pilot planned a touch-and-go landing on Runway 17R. The wind was reported from 280 degrees at 4 knots.

Pilot Account

The pilot stated that upon touchdown, a shimmy from the tailwheel was felt. By relaxing back pressure on the control yoke, the shimmy stopped. However, when the pilot reapplied back pressure, directional control was lost. The aircraft departed the runway to the right and ground looped.

Damage

The accident resulted in damage to the left wing, stabilizer, and elevator.

Mechanical Findings

Post-accident examination found no preimpact mechanical problem with the tailwheel assembly.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Sept 1989 Cessna 180K accident near Englewood, CO?

During a touch-and-go landing on Runway 17R, a commercial pilot experienced a tailwheel shimmy. After momentarily correcting it by relaxing back pressure, reapplying back pressure caused loss of directional control, resulting in a ground loop and damage to the left wing, stabilizer, and elevator.

Were there any fatalities in the 2 Sept 1989 Cessna 180K accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Sept 1989 involved a Cessna 180K, registration N2705K, operated by James M. Leake, at Englewood, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL, WHICH RESULTED IN A GROUND SWERVE. THE CROSSWIND WAS A RELATED FACTOR.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29353. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.