Casualties unknown

Ground Loop Following Landing Roll After Passing Trees (N3189Z)

Enumclaw, WA, US

On September 22, 1990, a Piper PA18-150 (registration N3189Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Enumclaw, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT DID NOT MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE DURING THE LANDING ROLL IN GUSTING WIND CONDITION. 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

Pilot observed easterly wind and turbulence, circled to assess wind direction, noted tree movement indicating downwind. During landing roll after passing tree line, airplane yawed left then right; full left rudder and brake applied but ground loop resulted in substantial damage.

Incident Description

Upon approaching the airport for landing, the pilot observed that the wind was blowing from the east and conditions were turbulent. To determine wind direction, the pilot circled the runway and noticed that trees lining the north side of the runway were moving, indicating that the wind was blowing down the runway from the east. The pilot then prepared for landing.

Pilot Actions

During the landing roll, immediately after passing the line of trees, the airplane yawed to the left. The pilot corrected, and then the airplane yawed to the right. The pilot applied full left rudder and brake action in response, but the airplane ground looped.

Outcome

The ground loop resulted in substantial damage to the airplane.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24388. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.