No fatalities

Ground Loop on Landing After Pilot Misjudges Wind Conditions (N71381)

Seminole, TX, US

On July 3, 1997, a Luscombe 8A (registration N71381) was involved in an aviation accident near Seminole, TX. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for the existing wind conditions. A factor was the prevailing quartering tailwind. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot lost control during the landing roll, resulting in a ground loop, after incorrectly assessing winds as calm despite quartering tailwind conditions.

Accident Overview

A tailwheel-equipped airplane experienced a ground loop during the landing roll on runway 26. Witnesses observed the pilot executing a full stop landing when control was lost.

Pilot's Account

The pilot stated that before initiating the approach, he determined the winds were calm because he did not see any clues indicating a quartering tailwind. He also noted that the tailwheel steering on his heel brake-equipped airplane was 'marginal at best' when fully operational, and his aircraft was no exception, particularly when attempting left turns. The pilot reported accumulating over 700 hours of experience in Luscombe aircraft.

Witness Reports

Witnesses at the airport reported that at the time of the accident, winds were from 090 degrees at approximately 6 to 10 knots.

Conclusion

The pilot lost control of the airplane during the landing roll, leading to a ground loop.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Jul 1997 Luscombe 8A accident near Seminole, TX?

A pilot lost control during the landing roll, resulting in a ground loop, after incorrectly assessing winds as calm despite quartering tailwind conditions.

Were there any fatalities in the 3 Jul 1997 Luscombe 8A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Jul 1997 involved a Luscombe 8A, registration N71381, at Seminole, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate compensation for the existing wind conditions. A factor was the prevailing quartering tailwind.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08375. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.