Ground loop during landing in conventional geared aircraft

Casualties unknown • Tucson, AZ, US

A student pilot and instructor experienced a ground loop during the landing rollout of a conventional geared aircraft, resulting in a loss of directional control.

What happened

A private pilot was conducting his first flight in a conventional geared aircraft. Prior to takeoff, the instructor advised the student to avoid using the heel brakes during the landing phase.

During the landing rollout, the aircraft began a slight turn to the left. In an attempt to correct this divergence, the student applied right rudder. This action caused the airplane to make an abrupt turn to the right. Both the student and the instructor applied full left rudder in an effort to counteract the rightward turn; however, they were unable to regain directional control before the aircraft ground looped.

The investigation

An inspection of the brake system was conducted following the incident. The investigation found no mechanical malfunctions within the braking system.

Probable cause

The pilot's application of right rudder to correct a leftward deviation during the landing rollout, which induced an abrupt right turn and subsequent ground loop.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1999-01-10 Piper PA-18A-150 accident near Tucson, AZ?

A student pilot and instructor experienced a ground loop during the landing rollout of a conventional geared aircraft, resulting in a loss of directional control.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1999-01-10 involved a Piper PA-18A-150, registration N8980D, operated by Sun West Aviation, Inc., at Tucson, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's application of right rudder to correct a leftward deviation during the landing rollout, which induced an abrupt right turn and subsequent ground loop.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001204X00077. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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