Casualties unknown

Tailwheel Training Flight Ends in Ground Loop and Nose Over After Snow Bank Collision (N66ND)

Larimore, ND, US

On February 9, 2005, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N66ND) was involved in an aviation accident near Larimore, ND. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The CFI's delay in applying remedial action which resulted in a loss of directional control of the airplane. Factors associated with the accident were the student's excessive application of rudder and the snow bank which the airplane contacted. 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

During a tailwheel transition course, a student pilot's fourth landing resulted in a ground loop and nose-over after the aircraft struck a snow bank.

Incident Overview

A tailwheel training flight concluded with the aircraft nosing over after colliding with a snow bank during landing. The flight was conducted as part of a tailwheel transition course, with a certified flight instructor (CFI) providing instruction to a private pilot.

Sequence of Events

According to the CFI, the student pilot performed the first landing. The CFI then demonstrated a wheel landing. The student completed two additional landings with minimal assistance. The accident occurred during the student's fourth landing of the flight.

The CFI reported that the student landed on the main landing gear. After the tailwheel made contact with the runway, the airplane turned slightly left of the centerline. The student overcorrected, causing the airplane to veer abruptly to the right. The CFI applied full left rudder input but stated it was too late. The airplane ground looped, struck a snow bank along the side of the runway, and nosed over.

Outcome

The accident resulted in the airplane nosing over after striking the snow bank. No further details regarding injuries or damage were provided in the source.

Probable Cause

The source did not state a probable cause for the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050216X00201. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.