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Pilot Reports Ground Loop During Landing in Shifting Winds (N2801K)

Idaho Falls, ID, US

On June 23, 2002, a Cessna 180K (registration N2801K) operated by David Kresser was involved in an aviation accident near Idaho Falls, ID. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions during the landing roll. A crosswind was a factor. 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 pilot reported that after landing on the right tire and reducing power, the aircraft pivoted on that tire and slid off the runway, coming to rest facing opposite the landing direction.

Incident Summary

In a written statement, the pilot described the event, noting that on approach the winds were "8 knots but shifting from 140 degrees to 210 degrees." After touching down on the right tire, he reduced engine power. Before the left tire made contact with the runway, the pilot stated, "the aircraft pivoted on the right tire and shot to [his] left."

Attempted Recovery

In an effort to regain control, the pilot applied full power, but the aircraft continued off the runway. It came to rest facing approximately 180 degrees from the original landing direction.

Meteorological Information

A METAR observation from Idaho Falls (1353 UTC) reported winds from 190 degrees at 10 knots, consistent with the pilot's account of shifting winds.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Jun 2002 Cessna 180K accident near Idaho Falls, ID?

A pilot reported that after landing on the right tire and reducing power, the aircraft pivoted on that tire and slid off the runway, coming to rest facing opposite the landing direction.

Were there any fatalities in the 23 Jun 2002 Cessna 180K accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Jun 2002 involved a Cessna 180K, registration N2801K, operated by David Kresser, at Idaho Falls, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions during the landing roll. A crosswind was a factor.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020627X00989. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.