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Tailwheel Airplane Ground Loops During Landing Roll (N7ZF)

Montague, CA, US

On March 15, 2002, a Maule M-7-260 (registration N7ZF) operated by George A. Cordingly, Jr. was involved in an aviation accident near Montague, CA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind condition and failure to maintain directional control. 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

A tailwheel-equipped airplane experienced a ground loop during landing roll on runway 17. The pilot reported an uncommanded left turn that could not be corrected, resulting in substantial damage.

Incident Overview

A tailwheel-equipped airplane sustained considerable damage after it ground looped during the landing roll. The pilot reported performing a three-point landing on runway 17. According to the pilot, there were no apparent adverse wind conditions or turbulence at the time of landing.

Sequence of Events

The airplane rolled straight ahead for approximately 200 feet after touchdown. Subsequently, it commenced an immediate uncommanded left turn. The pilot stated that the turn was not correctable using brake or rudder inputs. The airplane ultimately ground looped to the left, resulting in considerable damage.

Weather Conditions

The reported winds at the airport around the time of the incident were from 310 degrees at 5 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Mar 2002 Maule M-7-260 accident near Montague, CA?

A tailwheel-equipped airplane experienced a ground loop during landing roll on runway 17. The pilot reported an uncommanded left turn that could not be corrected, resulting in substantial damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 15 Mar 2002 Maule M-7-260 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Mar 2002 involved a Maule M-7-260, registration N7ZF, operated by George A. Cordingly, Jr., at Montague, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate compensation for the crosswind condition and failure to maintain directional control.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020322X00391. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.