Casualties unknown

Uncommanded Roll Divergence During Descent (N326SW)

Houston, TX, US

On January 1, 1995, a Boeing 737-3A4 (registration N326SW) was involved in an aviation accident near Houston, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: ENCOUNTER WITH WAKE TURBULENCE. 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
Aircraft registered N326SW
Aircraft registered N326SW. Photo: redlegsfan21 from Vandalia, OH, United States / CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

During descent for landing, a pilot experienced an uncommanded roll divergence at 240 knots in clean configuration. The flight control system examination found no anomalies.

Event Description

During the descent for a landing approach, the pilot encountered an uncommanded roll divergence. The aircraft was at approximately 240 knots, in a clean configuration, and with power reduced at the time of the occurrence. The aircraft was following an MD-80 when the event occurred.

Pilot Actions

The first pilot was at the controls when the uncommanded rolls began. The captain assumed control early during the sequence. The initial divergence was a 20-degree right roll. As the right roll developed, the pilot applied a left correction, causing the aircraft to roll 30 degrees left. The pilot then applied right rudder, resulting in the wings returning to a level attitude. It was noted that the autopilot altitude hold was engaged.

Post-Event Examination

An examination of the flight control system failed to reveal any anomalies.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Jan 1995 Boeing 737-3A4 accident near Houston, TX?

During descent for landing, a pilot experienced an uncommanded roll divergence at 240 knots in clean configuration. The flight control system examination found no anomalies.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Jan 1995 involved a Boeing 737-3A4, registration N326SW, at Houston, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

ENCOUNTER WITH WAKE TURBULENCE.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X02855. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.