Casualties unknown

Tailwheel Aircraft Ground Loops During Student Pilot Rollout (N1027X)

Caldwell, ID, US

On August 29, 2003, a Cessna 180 (registration N1027X) operated by Barr, Robert E. was involved in an aviation accident near Caldwell, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The instructor's inadequate supervision, and the student's failure to maintain directional control. 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 flight instructor reported that a 12-hour student pilot experienced a ground loop during rollout in a tailwheel aircraft, resulting in the left wingtip and horizontal stabilizer striking the ground.

Event Description

A flight instructor reported that a student pilot with 12 hours of flight time was performing a landing rollout in a tailwheel-equipped aircraft. As the aircraft was rolling out on the runway, the nose deviated to the right. The student applied corrective rudder and brake inputs while the instructor confirmed that full up elevator had been applied. However, these actions were insufficient to prevent the aircraft from executing a 180-degree ground loop. During the ground loop, the left wingtip and horizontal stabilizer struck the ground.

Environmental Conditions

The wind at the time was variable from the north at 3 to 5 knots. The instructor reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions with the aircraft during the event.

Pilot Experience

The student pilot had accumulated 12 hours of total flight time. The flight instructor was present in the aircraft and supervising the operation.

Aircraft Information

The aircraft was a tailwheel-equipped type. No further details about the aircraft model, registration, or engine configuration were provided in the report.

Outcome

The aircraft sustained damage to the left wingtip and horizontal stabilizer as a result of contacting the ground. No injuries were reported in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Aug 2003 Cessna 180 accident near Caldwell, ID?

A flight instructor reported that a 12-hour student pilot experienced a ground loop during rollout in a tailwheel aircraft, resulting in the left wingtip and horizontal stabilizer striking the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Aug 2003 involved a Cessna 180, registration N1027X, operated by Barr, Robert E., at Caldwell, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The instructor's inadequate supervision, and the student's failure to maintain directional control.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030903X01450. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.