Tailwheel Aircraft Damaged During Ground Loop on Landing

Casualties unknown • Springdale, AR, US

A pilot lost control of a tailwheel-equipped aircraft during landing due to high winds, resulting in damage to the left wing spar.

What happened

A pilot was conducting a local parachute jumping flight with four parachutists on board when the mission had to be aborted. The decision to return to the airport was necessitated by prevailing high winds in the area. Prior to departure, the pilot's evaluation of the weather was based on television forecasts and local reports that indicated an approaching storm.

While attempting to land on Runway 18, the aircraft encountered a crosswind from 290 degrees at 19 knots, with gusts reaching 37 knots. During the landing sequence, the pilot lost control of the tailwheel-equipped airplane, causing the aircraft to ground loop. As a result of the maneuver, the left wing impacted the ground, leading to damage to the left wing spar. The pilot was not injured.

Probable cause

The pilot lost control of the tailwheel-equipped aircraft during landing due to a strong crosswind and gusts.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1995-07-05 Cessna 180E accident near Springdale, AR?

A pilot lost control of a tailwheel-equipped aircraft during landing due to high winds, resulting in damage to the left wing spar.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-07-05 involved a Cessna 180E, registration N8676X, at Springdale, AR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot lost control of the tailwheel-equipped aircraft during landing due to a strong crosswind and gusts.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03938. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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