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Aircraft Ground Loops After Wind Shift on Landing (N735PS)

Bingham, ME, US

On August 28, 1998, a Cessna 182Q (registration N735PS) was involved in an aviation accident near Bingham, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inattention to changing wind conditions, and lack of correction for the change. A factor in the accident was the damp grass runway. 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 witness reported a short field approach followed by a wind shift from 5 knots, resulting in a long touchdown, ground loop, and the airplane going over a river bank at the end of a mountain-surrounded runway.

Incident Overview

According to a witness, an airplane executed a short field approach to a runway that had been used by three preceding aircraft. The wind was estimated at 5 knots at the time, but it shifted 180 degrees, causing the airplane to touch down long. After touchdown, the airplane ground looped and subsequently went over a river bank at the end of the runway.

Airport and Environmental Conditions

The airport was located in an area surrounded by mountains, with the river at the end of the runway providing the only opening. It was known for wind shifts, which were a recognized characteristic of the location.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that he never noticed the wind shift during the approach or landing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Aug 1998 Cessna 182Q accident near Bingham, ME?

A witness reported a short field approach followed by a wind shift from 5 knots, resulting in a long touchdown, ground loop, and the airplane going over a river bank at the end of a mountain-surrounded runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Aug 1998 involved a Cessna 182Q, registration N735PS, at Bingham, ME.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inattention to changing wind conditions, and lack of correction for the change. A factor in the accident was the damp grass runway.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X10948. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.