Casualties unknown

Pilot Loses Control During Landing with Flat Tire (N1392D)

West Helena, AR, US

On December 22, 2002, a Cessna 170A (registration N1392D) was involved in an aviation accident near West Helena, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing. A contributing factor was the deflated tire. 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 with 850 hours of flight experience lost control of a tail-wheel airplane during landing after a hard landing and go-around, resulting in a ground loop and skid off the runway.

Event Overview

A pilot with 850 hours of flight experience was landing a tail-wheel equipped airplane when a loss of control occurred. The incident took place on Runway 17.

Pilot Account

The pilot reported that following an uneventful flight, he executed a hard landing on Runway 17. He then performed a go-around to set up for another approach and landing. Upon the subsequent touchdown, the airplane ground looped and skidded off the runway to the left at a 45-degree angle.

Tire Condition

The pilot stated that he believed the airplane had blown the right tire during the initial hard landing. He indicated that the blown tire contributed to the ground loop after the go-around.

Outcome

The airplane came to rest off the runway. No further details are provided.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Dec 2002 Cessna 170A accident near West Helena, AR?

A pilot with 850 hours of flight experience lost control of a tail-wheel airplane during landing after a hard landing and go-around, resulting in a ground loop and skid off the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Dec 2002 involved a Cessna 170A, registration N1392D, at West Helena, AR.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing. A contributing factor was the deflated tire.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030210X00193. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.