Ground loop accident involving tailwheel aircraft

Casualties unknown • Caldwell, ID, US

A student pilot experienced a ground loop during a runway rollout, resulting in damage to the left wingtip and horizontal stabilizer.

What happened

During a runway rollout in a tailwheel equipped aircraft, the nose of the aircraft deviated to the right. The student pilot, who had 12 hours of flight experience, applied corrective rudder and braking. Although the flight instructor confirmed that full up elevator had been applied, these actions were insufficient to maintain directional control.

The aircraft subsequently underwent a ground loop of 180 degrees. During this maneuver, the left wingtip and the horizontal stabilizer made contact with the ground. At the time of the event, winds were reported as variable to northerly at 3-5 knots.

The investigation

The instructor reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions with the aircraft during the incident.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll led to a ground loop.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2003-08-29 Cessna 180 accident near Caldwell, ID?

A student pilot experienced a ground loop during a runway rollout, resulting in damage to the left wingtip and horizontal stabilizer.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2003-08-29 involved a Cessna 180, registration N1027X, operated by Barr, Robert E., at Caldwell, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll led to a ground loop.

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.

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