Casualties unknown

Runway Sign Struck During Touch-and-Go Practice (N57528)

Chandler, AZ, US

On August 18, 1997, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N57528) was involved in an aviation accident near Chandler, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The student's failure to maintain directional control due to excessive use of the rudder, and the instructor's delayed remedial action. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During touch-and-go landings, a student pilot overcorrected with rudder, leading to a ground loop and runway excursion that ended with the airplane striking a runway sign.

Accident Overview

A private pilot and a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) were practicing touch-and-go landings. The CFI later noted that the student had been applying excessive rudder in previous landing corrections.

Sequence of Events

During the landing roll, the airplane began to veer left. The CFI instructed the student to straighten the aircraft, and the student responded by applying too much right rudder. The CFI then applied left rudder and brake in an attempt to correct the deviation, but stated that it was too late, as the airplane had already initiated an inadvertent ground loop or swerve. The aircraft subsequently departed the runway and struck a runway sign.

Aftermath

The aircraft came to a stop after striking the sign. The source does not provide further details on damage or injuries.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08682. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.