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Tailwheel Airplane Ground Loops During Landing Attempt (N9091D)

Bethel, AK, US

On April 4, 2005, a Piper PA-18 (registration N9091D) operated by Paul D. Tony was involved in an aviation accident near Bethel, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to compensate for a crosswind during an aborted landing, which resulted in a loss of directional control. A factor associated with the accident was a 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot reported a ground loop during landing of a tailwheel airplane on Runway 36 with a left crosswind, resulting in structural damage to the aircraft.

Accident Summary

A private pilot was landing a tailwheel-equipped airplane on Runway 36. The approach required a correction for a left crosswind. During touchdown, the airplane bounced slightly and then settled onto the right main tire. The pilot attempted to abort the landing, but the airplane departed the runway and ground looped to the right. The accident resulted in structural damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage. The pilot noted that no preaccident mechanical problems were identified.

Weather Information

A weather observation taken at the time of the accident reported sky conditions and ceiling of 1,500 feet scattered, visibility of 10 statute miles, and wind from 320 degrees magnetic at 11 knots.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Apr 2005 Piper PA-18 accident near Bethel, AK?

A private pilot reported a ground loop during landing of a tailwheel airplane on Runway 36 with a left crosswind, resulting in structural damage to the aircraft.

Were there any fatalities in the 4 Apr 2005 Piper PA-18 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Apr 2005 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N9091D, operated by Paul D. Tony, at Bethel, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to compensate for a crosswind during an aborted landing, which resulted in a loss of directional control. A factor associated with the accident was a crosswind.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050616X00797. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.