Casualties unknown

2001-02-04: Cessna 180K (N180PG) — Clovis, NM

Clovis, NM, US

On February 4, 2001, a Cessna 180K (registration N180PG) was involved in an aviation accident near Clovis, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control, which resulted in the subsequent swerve of the airplane. Contributing factors were the pilot's lack of experience in make and model and his diverted attention while attempting to adjust the trim. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot practicing touch-and-go landings experienced a collapse of the right main landing gear after applying full power, causing the aircraft to veer and sustain damage to the wing, fuselage, and propeller.

Accident Overview

A private pilot, the sole occupant of the aircraft, was conducting touch-and-go landing practice. After one landing, the pilot applied full power for takeoff and attempted to adjust the trim. The airplane then swerved to the left and hopped. The right main landing gear collapsed, causing the propeller and right wing to strike the runway. The aircraft continued to swerve to the left side of the runway before coming to a stop.

Damage Assessment

The accident resulted in substantial damage. The right wing outboard of the wing strut was bent upward approximately 40 degrees. The right main landing gear was collapsed. The fuselage between the landing gear attachment points was damaged, and the propeller also sustained damage.

Pilot Information

The pilot held a private pilot certificate and was the only occupant. At the time of the accident, the pilot had accumulated 54 hours of total flight time, including 27 hours as pilot-in-command. The pilot had 9 hours of experience in the make and model of the aircraft involved, and 4 hours within the preceding 30 and 90 days.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010216X00459. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.