Casualties unknown

2007-06-08: Boeing Stearman A75N1 (N450SS) — Coeur D'alene, ID

Coeur D'alene, ID, US

On June 8, 2007, a Boeing Stearman A75N1 (registration N450SS) was involved in an aviation accident near Coeur D'alene, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during landing. The crosswind condition was a contributing factor. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported that after landing tail-low on runway 5, wind lifted the right wing, causing a ground loop. Left wing struck the ground and the airplane exited the runway, coming to rest upright in grass.

Incident Overview

A pilot provided a report detailing an incident during landing on runway 5. According to the pilot, the automated weather observation system (AWOS) was consulted two or three times before the landing. On the last check, the AWOS indicated winds from 140 degrees at 7 knots.

Approach and Landing

The pilot conducted a straight-in approach to the runway. The landing was performed with the tail low, a technique that typically keeps the nose high during touchdown. Shortly after the wheels contacted the surface, the pilot stated that "the wind got under my right wing." This caused the aircraft to begin a ground loop—an uncontrolled rotation on the ground.

Loss of Control

To counter the rotation, the pilot attempted to use the rudder. However, the pilot reported that there was not enough rudder authority to bring the aircraft under control. During the ground loop, the left wing struck the ground, and the aircraft departed the paved runway surface.

Final Position

The airplane came to rest upright in the grass alongside the runway. No other details about the aircraft, occupants, or damage were provided in the report.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070723X00997. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.