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Aircraft Ground Loops During Landing Checkout, Tailwheel Separates (N4893R)

Humboldt, TN, US

On May 30, 2001, a Cessna A188B (registration N4893R) was involved in an aviation accident near Humboldt, TN. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the aircraft during the landing rollout, resulting in a ground loop/ground swerve and substantial damage to the aircraft. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a landing checkout, a pilot experienced a ground loop, causing the tailwheel to detach from the empennage. The pilot reported loss of directional control during the landing rollout.

Incident Overview

According to the aircraft owner, a pilot was being checked out on the aircraft when a ground loop occurred during landing. The aircraft rotated 180 degrees during the event. The side load imparted to the tail section tore the tailwheel off the empennage at its attach points, resulting in a bent bulkhead.

Pilot's Account

The pilot stated that the accident happened when directional control was lost during the landing rollout. This led to a slow right turn, during which the airplane exited the runway. The aircraft came to a stop approximately 20 feet from the runway edge, facing the opposite direction.

Mechanical Condition

According to the pilot, there had been no previous mechanical failure or malfunction with the aircraft or any of its systems prior to the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 May 2001 Cessna A188B accident near Humboldt, TN?

During a landing checkout, a pilot experienced a ground loop, causing the tailwheel to detach from the empennage. The pilot reported loss of directional control during the landing rollout.

Were there any fatalities in the 30 May 2001 Cessna A188B accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 May 2001 involved a Cessna A188B, registration N4893R, at Humboldt, TN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the aircraft during the landing rollout, resulting in a ground loop/ground swerve and substantial damage to the aircraft.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010604X01068. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.