On November 28, 1996, a Cessna 170A (registration N1729D) operated by Dennis A. Treadwell was involved in an aviation accident near EL Cajon, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, attributed to his lack of experience with conventional gear aircraft. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A light aircraft ground looped to the left during the initial phase of takeoff on runway 27L, resulting in damage to the right wing. The pilot had limited experience with conventional gear aircraft.
What happened
The pilot initiated a takeoff roll on runway 27L under calm wind conditions. During the early stages of acceleration, the aircraft deviated sharply to the left, causing it to ground loop. This loss of directional control resulted in damage to the right wing.
The investigation
Review of the pilot's flight records indicated that he possessed very few hours of experience flying aircraft with conventional landing gear configuration. This lack of specific experience was a significant factor in the incident.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, attributed to his lack of experience with conventional gear aircraft.