On May 27, 1997, a Cessna 180 (registration N9408C) was involved in an aviation accident near Olney, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a crosswind landing, which resulted in a ground loop and subsequent collapse of the left main landing gear. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A tailwheel-equipped aircraft experienced a crosswind landing incident where an initial touchdown led to a ground loop, resulting in collapsed gear and wing damage.
What happened
The pilot reported encountering a right quartering crosswind during the approach and landing phase. Upon initial contact with the runway, the aircraft touched down on the right main wheel before becoming airborne again. During this brief re-entry into the air, the nose of the airplane yawed into the wind direction.
Subsequently, the tailwheel-equipped aircraft landed in a sideways attitude. This unusual touchdown configuration caused the aircraft to ground-loop to the right. The force of the ground loop resulted in structural failures, specifically causing the left main landing gear to collapse and the left wing tip to strike the ground.
The investigation
Post-accident examination confirmed the mechanical damage described by the pilot. The primary structural impact involved the left side of the aircraft's undercarriage and forward fuselage area.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during a crosswind landing, which resulted in a ground loop and subsequent collapse of the left main landing gear.