1998-07-20: Cessna A188B — Erie, CO

Casualties unknown • Erie, CO, US

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane. A factor was a crosswind gust.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot landed on runway 33. When the airplane was approximately midfield, 'a gust of wind overcame my ability to keep the airplane in center of runway,' and 'caused me to yaw to the right.' The wind gust was encountered just as the tail wheel was about to touch down, 'when rudder is least effective.' The airplane ground looped, shearing the attach bolts on the left main landing gear and causing it to collapse. The right wing also sustained damage. Reported winds were from 010 degrees at 5 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1998-07-20 Cessna A188B accident near Erie, CO?

The pilot landed on runway 33. When the airplane was approximately midfield, 'a gust of wind overcame my ability to keep the airplane in center of runway,' and 'caused me to yaw to the right.' The wind gust was encountered just as the tail wheel was about to touch down, 'when rudder is least effective.' The airplane…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-07-20 involved a Cessna A188B, registration N21827, at Erie, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the airplane. A factor was a crosswind gust.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10589. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

Loading the flight search…