Casualties unknown

Aircraft Ground-Loops During Landing Rollout on Runway 3 (N189T)

Lynchburg, VA, US

On August 14, 2000, a Piper PA-18-105 (registration N189T) operated by Lawrence C. Spath was involved in an aviation accident near Lynchburg, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing roll-out. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During landing rollout on Runway 3, the aircraft veered right. The pilot applied left rudder and then attempted a go-around, but the turn tightened, leading to a ground-loop that damaged the left wing tip and rear wing spar. Examination found a bent left main wheel axle but no mechanical malfunction.

Accident Description

The incident occurred during the landing rollout on Runway 3, a 5,799-foot long by 150-foot wide asphalt runway. As the aircraft rolled out, it began to turn to the right. The pilot attempted to correct the deviation by applying full left rudder, but the airplane did not respond. Subsequently, the pilot initiated a go-around by applying full throttle, which caused the right turn to tighten. The pilot then reduced power, which led to a ground-loop, and the aircraft exited the runway. During the ground-loop, the left wing tip made contact with the ground, resulting in a bent rear wing spar.

Aircraft Examination

Post-incident examination of the aircraft revealed that the left main wheel axle was bent inward. There was no evidence of corrosion or rust on the axle. Additionally, no evidence of a mechanical malfunction was found on the aircraft.

Environmental Conditions

At the time of the incident, the winds at the airport were reported from 310 degrees at 4 knots.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21746. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.