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Rudder Binding During Landing Leads to Intentional Ground Loop by Flight Instructor (N3099A)

Wadsworth, OH, US

On May 30, 1998, a Cessna 170B (registration N3099A) was involved in an aviation accident near Wadsworth, OH. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The flight instructor's failure to maintain control of the airplane which resulted in his intentional ground loop. A factor in the accident was the flight instructor's lack of currency in tailwheel airplanes. 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

During a training flight, a CFI demonstrated a power-off landing in a tailwheel airplane. On landing, the rudder briefly bound, then released, causing a sudden turn. The CFI intentionally ground-looped to avoid runway overrun.

Accident Summary

A certificated flight instructor (CFI) and a pilot were conducting a training flight in a tailwheel airplane. After two unsuccessful power-off landing attempts at a short field, the CFI took control to demonstrate the proper technique. On short final, the CFI instructed the pilot to 'guard the controls,' and the pilot placed his hands and feet near the controls. The CFI stated that he wanted the other pilot to correct any erroneous inputs during the landing.

Landing and Rudder Binding

During touchdown, the airplane drifted to the right. The CFI responded by applying left rudder. He reported that the rudder pedal moved only about 1 inch before stopping, and then suddenly 'let go,' allowing full left rudder to be applied. The airplane immediately turned left. With little remaining runway, the CFI kicked 'full right rudder to intentionally ground loop the airplane.' The pilot stated that he did not feel the binding.

Investigation Findings

An examination of the rudder cables after removal of the floor panels confirmed proper installation. No 'witness marks' of binding controls were found. The CFI had a total of 36 hours in make and model, with none in the previous 90 days.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 May 1998 Cessna 170B accident near Wadsworth, OH?

During a training flight, a CFI demonstrated a power-off landing in a tailwheel airplane. On landing, the rudder briefly bound, then released, causing a sudden turn. The CFI intentionally ground-looped to avoid runway overrun.

Were there any fatalities in the 30 May 1998 Cessna 170B accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 May 1998 involved a Cessna 170B, registration N3099A, at Wadsworth, OH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The flight instructor's failure to maintain control of the airplane which resulted in his intentional ground loop. A factor in the accident was the flight instructor's lack of currency in tailwheel airplanes.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10114. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.