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Tailwheel Aircraft Ground Loops During Crosswind Landing Attempt (N8676X)

Springdale, AR, US

On July 5, 1995, a Cessna 180E (registration N8676X) was involved in an aviation accident near Springdale, AR. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO COMPENSATE FOR THE CROSSWIND CONDITIONS. FACTORS WERE THE CROSSWIND, AND THE PILOT'S IMPROPER WEATHER EVALUATION. 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

A pilot lost control of a tailwheel aircraft while landing on Runway 18 with a gusty crosswind. The airplane ground looped, damaging the left wing spar. The flight, carrying four parachutists, was aborted due to high winds. The pilot's weather evaluation was based on television forecasts indicating an approaching storm.

Accident Details

During an attempted landing on Runway 18, a tailwheel-equipped airplane experienced a loss of control. The wind was reported from 290 degrees at 19 knots, gusting to 37 knots. The aircraft subsequently ground looped, and the left wing spar sustained damage when the wing struck the ground.

Flight Information

The pilot had departed the airport with four parachutists aboard for a local parachute jumping flight. However, the mission was aborted due to the high winds prevailing in the area, forcing a return to the airport.

Weather Evaluation

Prior to departure, the pilot assessed the weather using local reports and forecasts received via television. These sources indicated that a 'storm' was approaching.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Jul 1995 Cessna 180E accident near Springdale, AR?

A pilot lost control of a tailwheel aircraft while landing on Runway 18 with a gusty crosswind. The airplane ground looped, damaging the left wing spar. The flight, carrying four parachutists, was aborted due to high winds. The pilot's weather evaluation was based on television forecasts indicating an approaching…

Were there any fatalities in the 5 Jul 1995 Cessna 180E accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Jul 1995 involved a Cessna 180E, registration N8676X, at Springdale, AR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO COMPENSATE FOR THE CROSSWIND CONDITIONS. FACTORS WERE THE CROSSWIND, AND THE PILOT'S IMPROPER WEATHER EVALUATION.

More accident analyses

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.