Piper PA-18 ground loop results in substantial damage

Casualties unknown • Noatak, AK, US

A National Park Service pilot lost directional control of a Piper PA-18 during the landing roll, resulting in a ground loop and airframe damage.

What happened

A pilot employed by the National Park Service was conducting a flight intended to regain proficiency in a Piper PA-18 following a three-month furlough. The pilot had not flown during the period of the furlough, and his total flight experience in this specific aircraft type was approximately five hours.

During the fourth landing of the flight, the pilot lost directional control of the airplane while on the landing roll. This loss of control caused the aircraft to ground loop to the left. The incident resulted in substantial damage to the airframe. There were no injuries reported.

Probable cause

The pilot lost directional control during the landing roll, causing the aircraft to ground loop.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-04-01 Piper PA-18 accident near Noatak, AK?

A National Park Service pilot lost directional control of a Piper PA-18 during the landing roll, resulting in a ground loop and airframe damage.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-04-01 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N4500W, operated by National Park Service, at Noatak, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot lost directional control during the landing roll, causing the aircraft to ground loop.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07658. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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