Casualties unknown

Taildragger Ground Loops During Crosswind Landing at LVN (N5180V)

Lakeville, MN, US

On August 29, 2004, a Beech BE-18 (registration N5180V) operated by Fast Company Llc was involved in an aviation accident near Lakeville, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate flare, the improper recovery from a bounced landing, the loss of directional control, and inadequate compensation for the crosswind. A factor was the crosswind. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported a bounced landing in strong crosswinds on runway 12, leading to a ground loop, right landing gear separation, and substantial damage. Winds were 150° at 9 knots gusting to 14 knots.

Landing Incident

An airplane sustained substantial damage during landing on runway 12. The pilot reported that crosswinds on final approach were "quite strong," requiring a crab into the wind to maintain runway alignment. During touchdown, the pilot stated he was too fast for a three-point landing and bounced about 3–4 feet in the air. After the bounce, the "wind got under the right wing," causing the airplane to depart the left side of the runway.

Sequence of Events

The airplane ground looped, with the left wing striking the ground. It then struck light boxes and continued turning left. The right landing gear separated from the airplane, after which the airplane entered a 3–4 foot ditch before coming to a stop.

Weather Conditions

Recorded winds at LVN at 1415 were 150 degrees at 9 knots, gusting to 14 knots.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040910X01400. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.