On April 8, 2001, a Cessna 170B (registration N2488D) was involved in an aviation accident near Penrose, NC. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inability to maintain directional control during a wheel landing in strong crosswinds, which resulted in a ground loop. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot lost control of the aircraft during a wheel landing in strong crosswinds, resulting in a ground loop after attempting corrective rudder input.
What happened
The accident occurred during the landing phase of flight. The pilot reported executing a wheel landing while encountering approximately a 90-degree crosswind condition. As the aircraft's tail was being lowered to the runway surface, the airplane drifted toward the left side of the runway.
In an attempt to maintain directional control, the pilot applied right rudder input. However, this correction proved ineffective and instead induced a ground loop. The pilot noted that there were no known mechanical malfunctions or system failures with the aircraft prior to the incident.
The investigation
No physical examination of the airframe or systems is described in the provided source material beyond the pilot's statement regarding pre-accident condition.
Probable cause
The pilot's inability to maintain directional control during a wheel landing in strong crosswinds, which resulted in a ground loop.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 8 Apr 2001 Cessna 170B accident near Penrose, NC?
A pilot lost control of the aircraft during a wheel landing in strong crosswinds, resulting in a ground loop after attempting corrective rudder input.
Were there any fatalities in the 8 Apr 2001 Cessna 170B accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 8 Apr 2001 involved a Cessna 170B, registration N2488D, at Penrose, NC.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inability to maintain directional control during a wheel landing in strong crosswinds, which resulted in a ground loop.
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