On June 19, 2002, a Cessna 180 (registration N9150C) operated by Jimmy R. Westbrook was involved in an aviation accident near Jacksonville, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control on landing rollout resulting in an inadvertent ground loop. A factor related to the accident was the certified flight instructors inadequate supervision of the training flight. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a wheel landing, the airplane veered left, exited the runway, and nosed over. Both pilots applied right rudder, and the right brake was felt to be locked. Brake examination revealed no anomalies.
Accident Summary
A pilot, under evaluation by a certified flight instructor (CFI) in the right front seat, was performing a wheel landing to a full stop. As the tail wheel began to descend after touchdown, the airplane unexpectedly veered to the left.
Events Leading to Accident
The CFI immediately took control inputs alongside the rated pilot. Both pilots applied right rudder in an attempt to correct the leftward deviation. The CFI reported that the right brake felt as though it had locked. Despite their inputs, the airplane continued its leftward movement. The left main wheel departed the paved surface, and the airplane subsequently nosed over.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, maintenance personnel examined both the left and right brake assemblies. The inspection found no anomalies or defects in either brake system. No further mechanical issues were identified.