Casualties unknown

Ground Loop During Touch-and-Go Leads to Wing Strike (N4101E)

Chandler, AZ, US

On January 15, 1997, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N4101E) operated by Chandler Air Service was involved in an aviation accident near Chandler, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: failure of the student pilot to maintain directional control of the aircraft, and the flight instructor's inadequate supervision of the flight. The student's diverted attention was a related factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A flight instructor reported that during a touch-and-go landing, the student pilot looked down to raise the flaps, causing the aircraft to veer right and ground loop, resulting in the left wing striking the ground.

Accident Details

A flight instructor (CFI) reported an accident that occurred during a touch-and-go landing. After touchdown, the student pilot looked down to locate and raise the flap handle. As the student operated the flaps, the aircraft began to deviate to the right.

The CFI attempted to correct the deviation by applying left rudder and aileron inputs, and later by adjusting engine power. Despite these efforts, the aircraft entered a ground loop to the right. During the ground loop, the left wing dipped and struck the ground.

The CFI stated that there were no mechanical malfunctions with the aircraft prior to the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07318. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.