2006-05-24: Cessna 180 — Thomas W. Bullard — Sterling, AK

Casualties unknown • Sterling, AK, US

Probable cause

The pilot's inadequate compensation for a crosswind during the landing roll, which resulted in an on-ground encounter with the runway surface. Factors contributing to the accident were a crosswind, and an inadvertent ground loop.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The certificated commercial pilot was landing at a private airstrip at the conclusion of a CFR part 91 personal flight. The airstrip did not have a windsock, but the pilot said he anticipated a right crosswind, and estimated the wind as about 10 knots. He said the airplane touched down, and then bounced slightly. The airplane began to veer to the right, and he attempted to stop the turn by applying left rudder and left brake. The turn continued, and the airplane ground looped to the right, sustaining damage to the left wing, the left horizontal stabilizer, and the left main landing gear.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2006-05-24 Cessna 180 accident near Sterling, AK?

The certificated commercial pilot was landing at a private airstrip at the conclusion of a CFR part 91 personal flight. The airstrip did not have a windsock, but the pilot said he anticipated a right crosswind, and estimated the wind as about 10 knots. He said the airplane touched down, and then bounced slightly. The…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2006-05-24 involved a Cessna 180, registration N4814, operated by Thomas W. Bullard, at Sterling, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's inadequate compensation for a crosswind during the landing roll, which resulted in an on-ground encounter with the runway surface. Factors contributing to 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/20060621X00791. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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