On June 3, 2002, a Piper PA-18A-150 (registration N8680D) operated by Barbara's Banners was involved in an aviation accident near Thomaston, GA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Failure of the pilot-in-command to maintain directional control on landing, resulting in an inadvertent ground loop. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A Piper aircraft experienced a ground loop during landing at a private airport in Thomaston, Georgia, resulting in structural damage to the left wing assembly which was discovered after the pilot returned to Griffin.
What happened
The incident occurred when an airplane executed a landing at a private airport located in Thomaston, Georgia. During the rollout phase of the landing, the aircraft ground-looped. This loss of directional control resulted in the left wing striking the ground surface.
Despite sustaining this impact, the pilot maintained control of the situation and continued the flight from Thomaston to Griffin. Upon arrival at Griffin, a post-flight inspection was conducted by the pilot. The examination revealed that the left wing assembly had sustained structural damage as a result of the earlier ground loop event.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 3 Jun 2002 Piper PA-18A-150 accident near Thomaston, GA?
A Piper aircraft experienced a ground loop during landing at a private airport in Thomaston, Georgia, resulting in structural damage to the left wing assembly which was discovered after the pilot returned to Griffin.
Were there any fatalities in the 3 Jun 2002 Piper PA-18A-150 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Jun 2002 involved a Piper PA-18A-150, registration N8680D, operated by Barbara's Banners, at Thomaston, GA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Failure of the pilot-in-command to maintain directional control on landing, resulting in an inadvertent ground loop.
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