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Ground Loop Following Crosswind Landing Damages Wing (N13HU)

Merritt Island, FL, US

On August 8, 2002, an Aviat A1 (registration N13HU) was involved in an aviation accident near Merritt Island, FL. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing rollout while landing in a crosswind which resulted in the airplane inadvertently veering off the runway and incurring damage when the pilot forced it into a ground loop to avoid entry… 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 executed a ground loop after a crosswind landing to avoid entering water, resulting in left wing damage.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that after landing an airplane in a strong crosswind, the aircraft veered to the right during the landing rollout. The pilot applied left brake control input in an attempt to maintain directional control but stated that sufficient braking effect could not be achieved.

Sequence of Events

According to the pilot, as the airplane continued its rollout, it approached the water's edge. To prevent the airplane from entering the water, the pilot intentionally forced the aircraft into a ground loop. During this maneuver, the left wing made contact with the ground and sustained damage.

Pilot Statement

The pilot indicated that the strong crosswind conditions were present at the time of landing. The specific aircraft type, registration, and other details were not provided in the report.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Aug 2002 Aviat A1 accident near Merritt Island, FL?

A pilot executed a ground loop after a crosswind landing to avoid entering water, resulting in left wing damage.

Were there any fatalities in the 8 Aug 2002 Aviat A1 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Aug 2002 involved an Aviat A1, registration N13HU, at Merritt Island, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the landing rollout while landing in a crosswind which resulted in the airplane inadvertently veering off the runway and incurring damage when the pilot forced it into a ground loop to avoid entry into the water.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020828X01472. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.