Casualties unknown

1995-09-13: Piper PA-20 (N7729K) — Searcy, AR

Searcy, AR, US

On September 13, 1995, a Piper PA-20 (registration N7729K) was involved in an aviation accident near Searcy, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INADEQUATE COMPENSATION FOR THE WINDS. A FACTOR WAS THE CROSSWIND. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A solo student pilot experienced a ground loop during landing on Runway 19 after a gust of wind struck the tailwheel airplane, resulting in structural damage to the wings.

Accident Overview

A solo student pilot, returning from a practice lesson, executed a traffic pattern entry for a full stop wheel landing on Runway 19. The airplane, a tailwheel type, came to rest inverted after a ground loop during the landing flare and touchdown. Structural damage to the wings was reported.

Flight Details

The pilot indicated that the approach airspeed was 70 mph with flaps extended 20 degrees. The airplane was banked 10 degrees into the wind, which the pilot reported as 10 knots from the right of the runway. The landing was intended to be a full stop wheel landing.

Landing and Ground Loop

During the landing flare and touchdown, the right wheel contacted the runway first, followed by the left wheel. Subsequently, the tailwheel airplane groundlooped as a gust of wind struck the airplane. The airplane came to rest inverted with structural damage to the wings.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04505. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.