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Casualties unknown

Ground-looping incident during landing (N57851)

Easton, MD, US

On July 20, 2000, a Boeing PT17 (registration N57851) was involved in an aviation accident near Easton, MD. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a ground-looping incident. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A light aircraft ground-looped while attempting to land on the runway. The airplane veered off the left side of the paved surface and struck a sign before coming to rest in the adjacent grassy area.

What happened

The pilot reported that during the landing phase, the airplane experienced a ground-looping event. As the aircraft traveled off the left side of the runway, the lower portion of the left wing made contact with a runway sign. The airplane eventually came to rest in the grass adjacent to the airfield.

The investigation

A Federal Aviation Administration inspector conducted an examination of the airplane following the incident. This inspection did not reveal any pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or defects that would have contributed to the event. Additionally, the pilot reported no prior issues with the aircraft's systems or operation.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a ground-looping incident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Jul 2000 Boeing PT17 accident near Easton, MD?

A light aircraft ground-looped while attempting to land on the runway. The airplane veered off the left side of the paved surface and struck a sign before coming to rest in the adjacent grassy area.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Jul 2000 involved a Boeing PT17, registration N57851, at Easton, MD.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a ground-looping incident.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21589. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.