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Casualties unknown

Airplane Ground Loops and Noses Over During Landing (N68809)

San Luis Obispo, CA, US

On June 30, 1991, a Boeing E75 (registration N68809) operated by Stephen L. Tobin was involved in an aviation accident near San Luis Obispo, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper use of flight controls and brakes to arrest the ground loop. 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 landing attempt, the airplane ground looped and nosed over after a quartering tailwind shift was not communicated to the pilot, who then improperly used flight controls and brakes.

Incident Summary

The pilot conducted one landing and takeoff on a runway measuring 4,800 feet in length and 100 feet in width. While on the downwind leg, surface winds shifted to a quartering tailwind condition. The local controller did not inform the pilot of this wind change and subsequently cleared the flight to land. Upon touchdown, the airplane entered a ground loop and nosed over.

Pilot Actions

In an attempt to arrest the ground loop, the pilot applied flight controls and brakes in an improper manner. The investigation noted that the pilot's actions were not appropriate for the situation.

Aircraft Examination

A post-incident examination of the brakes and tailwheel assembly revealed no evidence of malfunctions or failures. Both components were found to be in normal operating condition.

Probable cause

The pilot's improper use of flight controls and brakes to arrest the ground loop.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Jun 1991 Boeing E75 accident near San Luis Obispo, CA?

During a landing attempt, the airplane ground looped and nosed over after a quartering tailwind shift was not communicated to the pilot, who then improperly used flight controls and brakes.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Jun 1991 involved a Boeing E75, registration N68809, operated by Stephen L. Tobin, at San Luis Obispo, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's improper use of flight controls and brakes to arrest the ground loop.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X17330. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.