Hard landing and aborted takeoff following ground loop attempt

Casualties unknown • Scottsdale, AZ, US

An aircraft experienced a ground loop during landing rollout before performing an aborted takeoff that resulted in a second hard landing.

What happened

During the landing rollout, the aircraft experienced a significant wind event that lifted the right wing and landing gear. This caused the airplane to veer to the left. In an attempt to regain directional control, the pilot used rudder input and leveled the wings. Fearing an imminent ground loop, the pilot decided to abort the landing.

To execute the aborted landing, the pilot applied full power but failed to retract the flaps. As the aircraft became airborne, the pilot performed maneuvers to avoid a taxi light while attempting to return to the runway heading. During this sequence, the airplane lost lift and subsequently landed hard.

The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions involving the brake systems or the flight control rudder during the event.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to abort the landing with flaps extended and subsequent loss of lift during maneuvers to avoid a taxi light.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2000-08-21 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Scottsdale, AZ?

An aircraft experienced a ground loop during landing rollout before performing an aborted takeoff that resulted in a second hard landing.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2000-08-21 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N91003, operated by Howard C. Fisk, at Scottsdale, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to abort the landing with flaps extended and subsequent loss of lift during maneuvers to avoid a taxi light.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21780. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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