Training Flight Ground Loop During Landing

Casualties unknown • Pottstown, PA, US

A flight instructor and student pilot experienced a ground loop after applying corrective braking during a crosswind landing.

What happened

A certificated flight instructor (CFI) and a pilot were performing a training flight when the aircraft experienced a ground loop during the landing phase. Upon touchdown, the airplane bounced once on the main landing gear and initiated a rollout. To manage the crosswind condition, the crew applied left rudder, right aileron, and transitioned the elevator to a full-up position.

Approximately 500 to 600 feet into the rollout, the aircraft began swerving to the right. The pilot attempted to counteract this movement using the remaining left rudder and subsequently began applying the left brake. Before the aircraft's heading had deviated by more than 30 degrees, the CFI instructed the pilot to release the brakes. At that moment, both occupants applied full left rudder, causing the airplane to depart the right side of the runway and accelerate into a ground loop.

At 0854, airport weather reports indicated winds from 320 degrees at 13 knots, with gusts up to 19 knots. The pilot involved in the incident reported having 4 hours of total flight experience in this specific make and model.

Probable cause

The application of corrective braking during a crosswind landing, which led to an overcontrol situation and a subsequent ground loop.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-04-30 Cessna 185F accident near Pottstown, PA?

A flight instructor and student pilot experienced a ground loop after applying corrective braking during a crosswind landing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-04-30 involved a Cessna 185F, registration N6535E, at Pottstown, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The application of corrective braking during a crosswind landing, which led to an overcontrol situation and a subsequent ground loop.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X20908. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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