On July 18, 1995, a Piper PA-20 (registration N6953K) was involved in an aviation accident near Ogden, UT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL. HTE LOOSE TAILWHEEL ASSEMBLY BOLT WAS A FACTOR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A flight instructor experienced a strange noise and vibration during the landing roll, requiring increased left rudder input. Directional control was lost as the airplane slowed, resulting in a ground loop. Post-crash inspection revealed a loose tailwheel pivot bolt, and aircraft records showed 19 months since the last annual inspection.
Incident Description
During the landing roll, the flight instructor (CFI) reported hearing a strange noise and feeling a vibration. Suspecting a flat main landing gear tire, the CFI applied additional left rudder input to maintain the runway centerline. As the airplane decelerated, the instructor was unable to maintain directional control; the nose veered to the right, and the aircraft ground looped.
Inspection and Maintenance Records
Following the event, a post-crash inspection was conducted. The tailwheel pivot bolt was found to be loose. A review of the aircraft's maintenance logbooks indicated that it had been 19 months since the last annual inspection.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 18 Jul 1995 Piper PA-20 accident near Ogden, UT?
A flight instructor experienced a strange noise and vibration during the landing roll, requiring increased left rudder input. Directional control was lost as the airplane slowed, resulting in a ground loop. Post-crash inspection revealed a loose tailwheel pivot bolt, and aircraft records showed 19 months since the…
Were there any fatalities in the 18 Jul 1995 Piper PA-20 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 Jul 1995 involved a Piper PA-20, registration N6953K, at Ogden, UT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN DIRECTIONAL CONTROL. HTE LOOSE TAILWHEEL ASSEMBLY BOLT WAS A FACTOR.
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