Ground loop resulting in landing gear collapse during flight instruction

Casualties unknown • Dillingham, AK, US

A student pilot's error during landing led to a ground loop and structural damage to a tailwheel aircraft.

What happened

During a flight instruction session, a student pilot was operating a tailwheel-equipped airplane. After landing on a dry, paved runway, the pilot needed to correct for a left crosswind. During the rollout, the student pilot allowed the aircraft to veer to the left of the runway centerline.

The flight instructor attempted to take control of the aircraft to realign it with the runway centerline. However, the aircraft entered a ground loop to the left. This maneuver caused the right main landing gear to collapse, which subsequently led to the right wing striking the runway surface.

The investigation

An examination of the aircraft revealed that the right wing sustained structural damage due to the impact with the runway. Prior to the accident, the pilot noted that there were no mechanical anomalies present in the aircraft.

Probable cause

The student pilot's failure to maintain the runway centerline during landing in a left crosswind, leading to a ground loop and subsequent gear collapse.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2005-05-15 Piper PA-18 accident near Dillingham, AK?

A student pilot's error during landing led to a ground loop and structural damage to a tailwheel aircraft.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2005-05-15 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N8275U, operated by Kerrick L. Stout, at Dillingham, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The student pilot's failure to maintain the runway centerline during landing in a left crosswind, leading to a ground loop and subsequent gear collapse.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050616X00798. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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