Tailwheel aircraft inverted during ground loop on runway 18

Casualties unknown • Springdale, AR, US

A private pilot lost directional control of a tailwheel-equipped airplane during the landing roll, resulting in an inverted nose-over accident.

What happened

During the landing roll on runway 18, a tailwheel equipped airplane experienced a loss of directional control. According to reports from personnel at the control tower, the aircraft bounced upon touchdown. After the aircraft settled back onto the runway, it began a sharp left turn toward the edge of the runway.

The pilot reported that following the bounce and subsequent settlement, the aircraft's path deviated sharply. During this maneuver, the right wing struck the ground, causing the airplane to nose over. The aircraft came to rest in an inverted position on the east side of the runway. No injuries were reported. At the time of the accident, winds were recorded from 190 degrees at 10 knots.

Probable cause

The pilot lost directional control of the aircraft after a bounce during touchdown, leading to a ground loop and subsequent nose-over.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1998-12-03 Cessna 180 accident near Springdale, AR?

A private pilot lost directional control of a tailwheel-equipped airplane during the landing roll, resulting in an inverted nose-over accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-12-03 involved a Cessna 180, registration N1774C, at Springdale, AR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot lost directional control of the aircraft after a bounce during touchdown, leading to a ground loop and subsequent nose-over.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11559. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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