Casualties unknown

Tailwheel Vibration Leads to Ground Loop During Landing (N7770K)

Albuquerque, NM, US

On March 8, 1993, a Cessna 180J (registration N7770K) operated by George H. Burk was involved in an aviation accident near Albuquerque, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: AIRCRAFT CONTROL NOT MAINTAINED BY THE PILOT. A FACTOR WAS VIBRATION IN THE TAILWHEEL FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. 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

Pilot reported tailwheel vibration on a previous landing; after tightening the tailwheel nut, the vibration recurred during the next landing, causing the airplane to veer off the runway and ground loop. Post-accident examination found no anomalies.

Incident Details

A pilot experienced a vibration during a landing at a local airport, which he believed originated in the tailwheel. In response, the pilot and a mechanic tightened the tailwheel nut. After this corrective action, the pilot elected to proceed to his next destination.

Sequence of Events

During the subsequent landing at that destination, the vibration recurred. As the airplane continued its landing roll, it veered off the runway and executed a ground loop. The pilot had reported the previous vibration and the tightening of the tailwheel nut prior to the accident flight.

Post-Accident Examination

An examination of the tailwheel following the accident revealed no anomalies. No other mechanical issues were documented. The investigation did not determine a root cause for the vibration or the loss of directional control.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Mar 1993 Cessna 180J accident near Albuquerque, NM?

Pilot reported tailwheel vibration on a previous landing; after tightening the tailwheel nut, the vibration recurred during the next landing, causing the airplane to veer off the runway and ground loop. Post-accident examination found no anomalies.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Mar 1993 involved a Cessna 180J, registration N7770K, operated by George H. Burk, at Albuquerque, NM.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

AIRCRAFT CONTROL NOT MAINTAINED BY THE PILOT. A FACTOR WAS VIBRATION IN THE TAILWHEEL FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11981. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.