No fatalities

Pilot Distracted by Tower Query During Landing, Aircraft Ground-Loops (N180MK)

Pasco, WA, US

On April 27, 2003, a Cessna 180 (registration N180MK) was involved in an aviation accident near Pasco, WA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate remedial action when his aircraft began to veer during the landing roll, and his ultimate failure to maintain directional control which resulted in a ground loop. 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

During a landing attempt, the pilot was distracted by a tower query about a taxiway turnoff, causing the aircraft to veer left and ground-loop, resulting in wing impact and nose tip.

Incident Overview

A pilot attempting a three-point landing experienced a bounce after the main wheels touched the runway first. The aircraft then touched down a second time on all three wheels.

Distraction and Loss of Control

Shortly after the second touchdown, the tower asked the pilot if he could make a turnoff at the next taxiway. The pilot looked toward the taxiway to assess the feasibility of the turnoff. When he redirected his attention to the runway, the aircraft was veering to the left.

Attempted Recovery and Ground-Loop

The pilot attempted to realign the aircraft with the runway but was unable to do so. Almost immediately thereafter, the aircraft ground-looped. During the ground-loop, one wing impacted the runway, and then the aircraft tipped up onto its nose.

Outcome

The incident sequence concluded with the aircraft resting on its nose after the wing strike. No further details about occupants or damage were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Apr 2003 Cessna 180 accident near Pasco, WA?

During a landing attempt, the pilot was distracted by a tower query about a taxiway turnoff, causing the aircraft to veer left and ground-loop, resulting in wing impact and nose tip.

Were there any fatalities in the 27 Apr 2003 Cessna 180 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Apr 2003 involved a Cessna 180, registration N180MK, at Pasco, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate remedial action when his aircraft began to veer during the landing roll, and his ultimate failure to maintain directional control which resulted in a ground loop. Factors include the pilot's momentary diversion of his attention during the landing roll.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030430X00601. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.