On September 22, 1993, a Cessna 170B (registration N8081A) operated by Armel Aviation, Ltd was involved in an aviation accident near Martinsburg, WV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing rollout, the right wing of the airplane began to rise. Despite pilot corrective inputs, the left wing struck the ground, leading to a ground loop and substantial damage to the right wing.
Incident Details
The pilot reported that during the landing rollout, the right wing of the airplane began to rise. He attempted to correct the situation by applying right aileron and rudder, but these inputs had no effect. Subsequently, the left wing struck the ground, causing the airplane to groundloop to the left.
Damage
The right main landing gear collapsed as a result of the ground loop, and the right wing sustained substantial damage. No mechanical malfunctions were reported by the pilot.
Wind Conditions
The wind at the time of the incident was reported as five knots from 360 degrees magnetic.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 22 Sept 1993 Cessna 170B accident near Martinsburg, WV?
During landing rollout, the right wing of the airplane began to rise. Despite pilot corrective inputs, the left wing struck the ground, leading to a ground loop and substantial damage to the right wing.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Sept 1993 involved a Cessna 170B, registration N8081A, operated by Armel Aviation, Ltd, at Martinsburg, WV.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL.
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