2004-02-14: Piper PA-18-160 — Naples, FL

Casualties unknown • Naples, FL, US

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate compensation for a crosswind condition during landing, which resulted in a loss of control and an on-ground encounter with terrain. Factors associated with the accident were a crosswind, and an inadvertent ground loop.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The private certificated pilot reported that he was landing on runway 23, which required a correction for a left crosswind. The pilot stated that at touchdown, a strong gust of wind lifted the left wing, and the airplane subsequently ground looped to the right. During the ground loop, the right wing and right aileron struck the surface of the runway and sustained structural damage. At 1338, an Aviation Routine Weather Report (METAR) was reporting the wind as 180 degrees (true) at 15 knots, with peak gusts of 22 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2004-02-14 Piper PA-18-160 accident near Naples, FL?

The private certificated pilot reported that he was landing on runway 23, which required a correction for a left crosswind. The pilot stated that at touchdown, a strong gust of wind lifted the left wing, and the airplane subsequently ground looped to the right. During the ground loop, the right wing and right aileron…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2004-02-14 involved a Piper PA-18-160, registration N226P, at Naples, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate compensation for a crosswind condition during landing, which resulted in a loss of control and an on-ground encounter with terrain. Factors associated with the accident were a crosswind, and an inadvertent ground loop.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040219X00203. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

Loading the flight search…