Ground Loop Incident During Landing

Casualties unknown • Elk City, ID, US

A pilot lost directional control during landing on a turf airstrip, resulting in a ground loop after drifting off the centerline despite corrective inputs.

What happened

The pilot reported that the aircraft landed on a turf airstrip measuring 4,100 feet in length. Upon touchdown, the airplane was positioned to the north of the intended landing zone. The pilot noted that the aircraft had decelerated to approximately 25 mph when it drifted to the right of the centerline.

In an effort to maintain directional control, the pilot applied left rudder and utilized the brake. However, these corrective actions were insufficient to prevent the aircraft from ground looping. Following the incident, the pilot reflected on the event, stating that quicker application of the rudder pedals might have prevented the loss of control.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2006-08-02 Cessna 180 accident near Elk City, ID?

A pilot lost directional control during landing on a turf airstrip, resulting in a ground loop after drifting off the centerline despite corrective inputs.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2006-08-02 involved a Cessna 180, registration N3239D, at Elk City, ID.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control, which resulted in a ground loop during the landing roll.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20060817X01203. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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