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Solo Tailwheel Landing Ends in Ground Loop and Runway Excursion (N7608H)

Meriden, CT, US

On July 8, 1995, a Piper PA-12 (registration N7608H) was involved in an aviation accident near Meriden, CT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to adequately compensate for wind conditions. Contributing factors were wind gusts, crosswinds, and the pilot's lack of experience in type. 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

During a solo landing on runway 18, a gust of wind caused a ground loop to the right, leading to a runway excursion. The left main landing gear bogged down in soft sand, causing the wing to strike the ground.

Accident Details

The pilot, who had just received dual instruction and was endorsed for solo flight in this tailwheel airplane, was performing his second solo landing on runway 18. According to the pilot, a gust of wind caused the airplane to ground loop to the right, and it subsequently departed the runway. The left main landing gear bogged down in soft sand, resulting in the wing striking the ground.

Environmental Conditions

The wind was from the southwest at 10 to 12 knots with gusts to 15 knots. Visibility was 7 miles, the temperature was 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and the runway was dry.

Pilot Experience

The pilot had accumulated 5.7 hours in this make and model of airplane during the last 90 days.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Jul 1995 Piper PA-12 accident near Meriden, CT?

During a solo landing on runway 18, a gust of wind caused a ground loop to the right, leading to a runway excursion. The left main landing gear bogged down in soft sand, causing the wing to strike the ground.

Were there any fatalities in the 8 Jul 1995 Piper PA-12 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Jul 1995 involved a Piper PA-12, registration N7608H, at Meriden, CT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to adequately compensate for wind conditions. Contributing factors were wind gusts, crosswinds, and the pilot's lack of experience in type.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04052. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.