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Ground Loop During Landing Results in Substantial Damage (N9794G)

Watkins, CO, US

On October 26, 2003, a Cessna 180J (registration N9794G) was involved in an aviation accident near Watkins, CO. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control resulting in the ground loop. Factors contributing to the accident were the crosswind and the gusts. 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 reported losing directional control after touchdown during a three-point landing, resulting in a ground loop that substantially damaged the left wing, left main landing gear, and forward fuselage. No anomalies were found in the airplane.

Accident Description

The pilot reported entering the traffic pattern for runway 26 and described the approach as normal, with a right crab of 10 to 15 degrees to maintain alignment with the runway centerline. The pilot stated that the touchdown occurred on the centerline at normal speeds for a three-point landing. After retracting the flaps and applying brief braking, the pilot lost directional control. The airplane then ground looped, causing substantial damage to the left wing, left main landing gear, and forward fuselage. The pilot noted that the airspeed was insufficient to perform a go-around.

Examination

An examination of the airplane revealed no anomalies. The reported wind conditions approximately seven minutes before the accident were 340 degrees at 16 knots, gusting to 20 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Oct 2003 Cessna 180J accident near Watkins, CO?

A pilot reported losing directional control after touchdown during a three-point landing, resulting in a ground loop that substantially damaged the left wing, left main landing gear, and forward fuselage. No anomalies were found in the airplane.

Were there any fatalities in the 26 Oct 2003 Cessna 180J accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Oct 2003 involved a Cessna 180J, registration N9794G, at Watkins, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control resulting in the ground loop. Factors contributing to the accident were the crosswind and the gusts.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20031103X01846. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.